Photo to painting

This is a tutorial posted for my convenience only (so that I would remember how to produce the same effect next time). For the actual tutorial, please visit myJanee.

Part 1: Adjust lighting

1. Create an adjustment layer. (Layer -> New Adjustment Layer -> Levels)


2. Mask the adjustment layer. Click on the white square beside the histogram.


3. Click on the Gradient Tool. Choose which type you want and mask it.


4. Create another adjustment layer. This time choose Hue/Saturation.


5. Increase the saturation for red, yellow and cyan. Depending on picture.


6. Flatten image and proceed to the next part.

Part 2: Adding filter

1. Duplicate the background layer.


2. Choose Cutout filter. (Filter -> Artistic -> Cutout)


3. Use the following setting:
   
   1. No. of levels : 5
      
   2. Edge simplicity : 3
      
   3. Edge fidelity : 2


4. Change blending mode to Luminosity


5. Duplicate another layer from the original background.


6. Choose Dry Brush filter. (Filter -> Artistic -> Dry Brush)


7. Use the following setting:
   
   1. Brush size : 2
      
   2. Brush details : 8
      
   3. Texture : 3


8. Change blending mode to Screen


9. Duplicate another layer from the original background.


10. Choose Paint Daubs filter. (Filter -> Artistic -> Paint Daubs)


11. Use the following setting:
    
    1. Brush size : 3
       
    2. Sharpness : 4
       
    3. Brush type : Simple


12. Change blending mode to Lighten


13. Create an adjustment layer. (Layer -> New Adjustment Layer -> Levels)


14. Edit the layer for final adjustment.


15. Flatten the image.

That's all to create a painting from a photo.