How do you create realistic shadows and highlights with Photoshop dodge and burn tools?

1 Choose the right mode

Before you start dodging and burning, you need to choose the right mode for your tools. You can find the mode option in the options bar, next to the brush size and hardness. The mode determines how the tool affects the underlying pixels. There are three modes: highlights, midtones, and shadows. Highlights mode affects only the lightest pixels, midtones mode affects the pixels with medium brightness, and shadows mode affects only the darkest pixels. You should use the mode that matches the area you want to adjust. For example, if you want to lighten a shadow, use shadows mode for the dodge tool. If you want to darken a highlight, use highlights mode for the burn tool.

2 Use a soft brush

Another important factor for creating realistic shadows and highlights is the brush hardness. You can adjust the hardness of your brush in the options bar, or by using the bracket keys on your keyboard. The hardness determines how sharp or blurry the edges of your brush are. A hard brush has a clear edge, while a soft brush has a smooth transition. For dodge and burn tools, you should use a soft brush, as it creates more natural and subtle effects. A hard brush can create harsh and unrealistic transitions, which can make your illustration look flat or overprocessed.

3 Create a new layer

One of the biggest mistakes you can make with dodge and burn tools is to apply them directly on your original image. This can damage your image quality, and make it harder to undo or adjust your changes. A better way to use dodge and burn tools is to create a new layer above your image, and set its blending mode to overlay. Then, fill the layer with 50% gray, which is neutral and does not affect the image. Now, you can use dodge and burn tools on this layer, and they will affect the image below. This way, you can preserve your original image, and have more control over your edits. You can lower the opacity of the layer, erase parts of it, or apply masks or filters to it.

4 Work with low exposure

Another tip for using dodge and burn tools effectively is to work with low exposure. The exposure determines how much the tool lightens or darkens the pixels. You can adjust the exposure in the options bar, or by using the number keys on your keyboard. The lower the exposure, the less the tool affects the pixels. You should use a low exposure, such as 10% or less, and build up your shadows and highlights gradually. This way, you can create more realistic and smooth transitions, and avoid overexposing or underexposing your image. You can also use the alt key to switch between dodge and burn tools quickly, and balance your adjustments.

5 Follow the light source

The last tip for creating realistic shadows and highlights is to follow the light source. The light source determines where the shadows and highlights are placed on your image, and how they shape the form and texture of your illustration. You should always have a clear idea of where the light source is, and how it affects your subject. For example, if the light source is above and in front of your subject, the shadows will be below and behind, and the highlights will be on the top and front. Use your tools to accentuate these areas, and create contrast and depth. You should also consider the shape and material of your subject, and how they reflect or absorb light. For example, a round and shiny object will have more highlights and sharper shadows than a flat and matte object.

6 Here’s what else to consider

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