Colorization++ - Potatoe's

[Laz Long]

Terrapin Bound Wrote:Masking has been my most common method.
A new layer for nearly every color, then add a mask. Then select the area, color it, and mask as necessary where you went out of the lines.
For multiple colors/shades on one layer, I'd adjust the areas of the layer as necessary, using lighten/darken/hue/etc.
Soften the edges of the mask for a nice color-to-color / layer-to-layer blend.
Images tend to get very heavy with layers using this technique, but also allow for a lot of precision and flexibility.
It's a lot of work.

Alternately, I've used a pad.
Add new layer, color with the pencil, erase the mistakes, etc.
I never got real good with pressure for crayon width, but I can see where it is much easier once you get used to it. You can carve a very fine edge with pressure/width adjustment, and it saves the great trouble of making a selection, and adding a mask layer.
But like others, it's a real estate issue. I shall endeavor to persevere.

I never quite figured out how to translate that old tutorial to PS. A step that was so simple in PSP seems so cumbersome in PS, that I must be missing something. (Duplicating a mask layer and applying it to another layer).
The tute was more about selecting fine detail with a mask layer, than masking in general.

I've been playing with this image and reading through everyone's awesome feedback. With any luck, they will unchain me from my desk so I can start actually working on it this weekend. A few comments and questions in the mean time:

I think that I've finally found the missing step. Starting with one layer for each color, select the area and use the selections to make the layer mask. (Layer --> Layer Mask --> Reveal Selection) or use the button at the bottom right that says Add Layer Mask. Now you can color on that layer without worrying about the lines. It's actually pretty good practice using various selection methods. A lot of work? No kidding! Then again, the practice with selections is always useful.

My previous attempts were pretty much what you describe about using a tablet... One new layer for each color and try to stay inside the lines. In my own mind, this is sort of like a coloring book. I've got a few going just as a distraction but I've never been happy with the results. I'm probably weird, but this is one of my most relaxing PS tasks. It requires a lot of concentration at one level while allowing my mind to wander at another. Again, I've been getting a different type of practice out of this approach. I'm sort of sneaking in the the stylus pressure and angle features as I play with colorization. So far, I'd rather not use those features. The tablet buttons and zoom ring seem more natural.

You say it so casually.... Soften the edges of the mask for a nice color-to-color / layer-to-layer blend. Any tips or hints for those of us less familiar with blending?

I've only responded to the latest post, but everyone that has shared their particular approach has helped me tremendously. Thank you all!