How do I add a vignette in Photoshop?

You can add a vignette in Photoshop by using a gradient fill layer.

Steps to Add a Vignette

Here is a breakdown of how to add a vignette in Photoshop, drawing from information found in a YouTube video on the topic:

1. Add a New Gradient Fill Layer:
   • Go to the bottom of the layers panel and select the New Fill or Adjustment Layer icon (it looks like a circle split in half).
   • Choose Gradient... from the list. This will open the Gradient Fill dialog box.
2. Choose the Gradient:
   • In the Gradient Fill dialog box, make sure the gradient type selected is black to transparent. If you don’t see this option, click on the gradient swatch and select a gradient that has black on one side and transparency on the other.
3. Adjust the Gradient Style:
   • In the Gradient Fill dialog box, change the style to Radial. This will create a circular gradient.
   • Check the box that says Reverse. This will place the transparent part of the gradient in the center of your image.
4. Adjust the Scale and Position:
   • Adjust the Scale slider and drag the gradient around on the image to get the vignette effect you like. As the video notes, you can drag the gradient to your liking.
5. Fine-tune with Opacity:
   • Adjust the opacity slider for the gradient layer in the layers panel. Use this to control the intensity of the vignette.
6. Review Your Changes:
   • You can toggle the layer's visibility (the eye icon) to see a before and after view.

Key Takeaways:

• Using a gradient fill layer gives you a non-destructive way to add a vignette that you can adjust later.
• Experiment with the gradient scale, position, and opacity to achieve your desired look.
• The radial gradient setting helps make a rounded vignette instead of a straight line edge.
• Reversing the gradient direction puts the center in focus.

By following these steps, you can easily add a vignette to your photos in Photoshop.