In photoshop (cs2) how would i edit a photo that had smoke in it to make the smoke thicker/more apparant?

Question

i can upload the photo if you want.

Answer 1

Duplicate the layer so you can just start again if you totally mess it up.

Then play with the curves tool, it lets you selectively adjust lighter and darker values, hence you will be able to concentrate on the smoke.

If that isn't enough, use the dodge tool (probably set to "highlights") with a very large, softly feathered brush and low opacity and do several passes over the smoke. It will gently lighten those areas further.

Answer 2

Well It's been awhile since I've used photoshop but my suggestion is to first Set the picture to a layer, then sharpen it, then I would duplicate the layer on the duplicated layer set a very very slight blur to it, then erase the smoke on the blurry layer to make the smoke very clear. It will also make the smoke stand out from the rest of the picture, kind of setting a focal point.