Replacing skies in photos can transform an ordinary image into a striking scene. Whether you're battling overexposed skies or lackluster lighting, Photoshop's sky replacement tools provide the flexibility to create dramatic compositions.
Coming to you from Jamie R Mathlin, this detailed video focuses on creating seamless sky replacements in Photoshop while refining every detail of an image. Mathlin starts with a photograph of the King's Head Pub in Salisbury, a historic site dating back to 1520. He demonstrates how to enhance this older image, originally shot during blue hour with a Canon 6D, using modern editing tools. After addressing minor exposure issues, Mathlin prepares the image for sky replacement by cleaning up distractions like utility cables and signs using Photoshop's Remove Tool and Generative Fill.
The sky replacement process showcases Photoshop's ability to blend high-contrast edges, ensuring the new sky integrates smoothly with the existing scene. Mathlin explains how to fine-tune the results by adjusting parameters like Edge Shift and Fade Edge to control how the sky transitions into the architecture. He also discusses leveraging multiply and screen blending modes to match lighting between the new sky and the scene. These adjustments ensure that the final composite looks cohesive, even under close scrutiny.
For further refinement, Mathlin uses targeted masking techniques in Lightroom to adjust the warmth and saturation of building lights, adding realism to the scene. He emphasizes the importance of selectively enhancing details, such as window reflections and illuminated areas, while maintaining a balance between vibrant colors and subtle tones. By carefully working with linear gradients and radial masks, he brings depth and contrast to the image without overprocessing it.
Sky replacement also enables greater creative freedom for experimenting with lighting scenarios. Mathlin demonstrates how to incorporate sunsets and dynamic skies to create a unique atmosphere, even when the original weather conditions fell short. For those who want more control over the entire process, he suggests combining your own sky photographs with Photoshop's tools for a personal touch. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Mathlin.