To use the Clone Stamp tool in Photoshop Elements, you essentially sample pixels from one area of your image and paint them onto another area. Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Select the Clone Stamp Tool:
- Find the Clone Stamp tool in the Tools panel. It often looks like a rubber stamp.
2. Choose a Source Point:
- This is the crucial step! Hold down the Alt key (Windows) or the Option key (macOS). Your cursor will change to a target icon.
- Click on the area of the image you want to copy from. This sets your source point. This "source" area contains the pixels you'll be replicating.
3. Paint the Cloned Area:
- Release the Alt or Option key.
- Move your cursor to the area where you want to apply the copied pixels.
- Click and drag to paint. As you paint, the Clone Stamp tool copies the pixels from your source point and applies them to the new area. You'll see a crosshair appear at the source point, showing you what area you're currently copying.
4. Adjust the Brush Size (Optional):
- Before cloning, adjust the brush size in the options bar at the top of the screen. A smaller brush is useful for detail work, while a larger brush is better for covering larger areas. You can also adjust the hardness or softness of the brush.
5. Sampling Considerations:
- Dynamic Cloning: By default, the Clone Stamp tool moves the source point relative to where you are painting. This is useful for replicating patterns or textures.
- Fixed Cloning (Aligned Option): If you want to paint the same area repeatedly from the source point, deselect the "Aligned" option in the options bar. This will keep the source point fixed no matter where you click.
Example Uses:
- Removing Blemishes: Clone skin from a clear area of the face to cover up a pimple.
- Removing Objects: Clone the surrounding background to paint over and remove an unwanted object in a photo.
- Duplicating Elements: Clone a bird in the sky to make more birds in the sky.
Tips for Best Results:
- Choose Your Source Carefully: Pick a source area that is similar in color, lighting, and texture to the area you're painting over.
- Work in Small Increments: Clone in short strokes, frequently re-sampling the source area.
- Feather Your Brush: A soft brush edge helps blend the cloned area seamlessly with its surroundings.
- Use Layers (Advanced): Clone onto a separate layer so that your edits are non-destructive. This lets you easily adjust or undo your cloning without affecting the original image.
By following these steps and practicing, you can effectively use the Clone Stamp tool in Photoshop Elements to make seamless image edits.
