Using AI Filters for Quick Photo Retouching
Learning Objectives
- Apply Neural Filters in Photoshop for automated photo improvements
- Use AI tools for common retouching tasks like skin smoothing and noise reduction
- Recognise when AI filters work well and when manual adjustments are needed
Introduction
Photoshop's Neural Filters use Adobe's AI technology to handle routine retouching tasks automatically. These tools can smooth skin, reduce JPEG artifacts, and enhance portraits with just a few clicks. While they won't replace skilled manual editing, they're excellent for speeding up your workflow and handling repetitive tasks. You'll learn how to use these filters effectively and spot when they need a helping hand.
Lessons
Getting Started with Neural Filters
Neural Filters live in Photoshop's Filter menu and use cloud-based AI to analyse and improve your photos. Here's how to access them:
- Open your image in Photoshop
- Go to Filter > Neural Filters
- Browse the available filters in the panel that opens
- Look for popular options like Skin Smoothing, Smart Portrait, and JPEG Artifacts
The interface shows which filters are downloaded and ready to use. Some require an internet connection for the first download, then work offline afterwards.
Common AI Retouching Tasks
These filters handle several everyday editing jobs:
Skin Smoothing: Reduces blemishes and evens skin texture while preserving natural detail. Adjust the Amount slider to control the effect strength.
JPEG Artifacts: Removes compression artifacts from heavily compressed images. Particularly useful for web images or older digital photos.
Smart Portrait: Changes facial expressions, age, and other portrait elements. Use this one sparingly as it can look unnatural quickly.
Super Zoom: Enlarges images while maintaining sharpness using AI upscaling.
Start with low settings and increase gradually. The preview updates in real-time so you can see changes immediately.
Working Around AI Limitations
AI filters work well for standard scenarios but struggle with unusual lighting, extreme close-ups, or artistic effects. Here's what to watch for:
Over-smoothing: Skin can look plastic if you push the smoothing too far. Keep some natural texture visible.
Edge artifacts: AI sometimes creates odd effects around hair or clothing edges. Check these areas carefully.
Inconsistent results: The same settings might work differently on various photos. Always preview the full image before applying.
Use layer masks to apply AI effects selectively, or reduce the layer opacity to blend AI results with the original image.
Practice
Choose a portrait photograph and experiment with the Skin Smoothing filter. Try different Amount settings and notice how the effect changes with various skin tones and lighting conditions. Apply the filter to a duplicate layer so you can compare results easily.
Next, find a heavily compressed JPEG image and test the JPEG Artifacts filter. See how it handles different types of compression damage.
FAQs
Do Neural Filters work offline?
Most filters download once then work offline, but the initial download requires internet access. Some newer filters may need periodic online updates.
Can I adjust AI filter results after applying them?
Yes, apply filters to duplicate layers so you can adjust opacity, add masks, or blend modes. This gives you more control over the final result.
Why do some filters look unrealistic?
AI filters are trained on specific types of images and lighting. They work best on standard portraits with even lighting and may struggle with creative or unusual shots.
Which file formats work best with Neural Filters?
RGB colour mode works best. Convert CMYK images to RGB before using Neural Filters, and work with high-quality source files when possible.
Jargon Buster
Neural Filters: AI-powered filters in Photoshop that use machine learning to automate common editing tasks
Adobe Sensei: Adobe's artificial intelligence platform that powers automated features across Creative Cloud applications
JPEG Artifacts: Visual distortions caused by heavy image compression, appearing as blocky patterns or colour banding
AI Upscaling: Using artificial intelligence to enlarge images while predicting and adding detail that wasn't in the original
Wrap-up
Neural Filters offer a quick way to handle routine retouching tasks, especially when you're working with multiple images or tight deadlines. They work best as a starting point rather than a complete solution. The key is knowing when to use them and when to switch to manual techniques for more precise control.
Practice with different types of images to understand each filter's strengths and limitations. Combine AI automation with traditional editing skills for the best results.
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