Ok Laura, I think you will like this effect, when needed or wanted (can I get arrested for copying AI? LOL). This is for Photoshop.
Step 1: Prepare Your Layer
- Select your target image layer in the Layers Panel.
- Right-click the layer and choose Convert to Smart Object.
- Why? This allows you to go back and adjust your sharpening slider or change the blend mode at any time without damaging the original image.
Step 2: Apply the High Pass Filter
- Go to the top menu and select Filter > Other > High Pass…
- Your image will turn completely gray, showing only faint outlines.
- Adjust the Radius slider at the bottom:
- For portraits/skin: Keep it low (1.0 to 2.5 pixels) to capture fine hairs, eyelashes, and pores.
- For landscapes/architecture: Set it slightly higher (2.5 to 4.5 pixels) to emphasize structural lines and rocks.
- Tip: Stop sliding when you just begin to see the details peaking through the gray. If you see actual colors, the radius is too high and will cause ugly glowing halos.
- Click OK.
Step 3: Blend It into the Image
- Look at the Layers Panel. Double-click the Filter Blending Options icon (the two tiny sliders icon next to the word “High Pass” under your Smart Object).
- Change the Mode dropdown from Normal to one of these contrast blend modes:
- Soft Light: For a subtle, natural-looking sharpness.
- Overlay: For a standard, crisp result (most common).
- Linear Light: For intense, high-impact sharpening (best for highly detailed textures like brick or fabric).
- Click OK.
Step 4: Fine-Tune (Optional)
- To lower the intensity: Lower the opacity of the High Pass smart filter effect.
- To change the sharpness: Double-click the words “High Pass” to reopen the slider and readjust the radius.
- To target specific areas: Click on the white Smart Filter mask thumbnail on your layer, grab a black brush, and paint over areas you don’t want sharp (like smooth skin backgrounds or out-of-focus bokeh).