Clarity

[Viz]

Has anyone noticed the new "Clarity" slider in Adobe Camera Raw 4.3.1?

I was trying to work out what it was changing to make the image pop out, & I think that I have it.

I believe that it is the same as when you merge the image to a new layer in PS and set the layer to overlay transfer mode. Then apply the 'high pass' filter (under other in filter menu).

I have used the latter method to milk a bit more contrast out of an image, or where usm didn't fit the bill for whatever reason.

I haven't actually tested the two side by side, so please feel free to disprove the theory.

[MATT]

Thanks for the tip on CLarity. I use it in Lightroom . BUt its not normally part of my work flow..

Thanks

MATT

[Oneputt]

The clarity slider works on the mid tones. there is a very good explanation somewhere in the Photoshop killer tips library.

[Bob G]

The Clarity Slider - adds contrast to the midtones and makes the midtone areas look sharper

[the foto fanatic]

From Philip Andrews, Australian Photoshop specialist demonstrator and author:

"Use the clarity slider to add local contrast to the details in the photo. This will increase the appearance of detail and make diffused images look sharper."

A good tip when using the clarity slider is to enlarge the image to 100% view so that you can see the change in edges as you move the slider.

[Viz]

Exactly. But as a tip for people without the latest PS versions, I am pretty sure they can achieve this same effect as far back as version 5.something. Now we get a dedicated slider instead of an obscure filter.