Adding sparkle

[Cjay]

Hello everyone. I am currently stuck in trying to figure out how the star like sparkles were added to this image.What in your opinion is the best way to approach this?(There is probably numerous ways to do this I imagine).

 

[dv8_fx]

Hi. If you use Photoshop, you can use a sparkle shape brush or create a sparkle with the custom shape tool .

 

[Tom Mann]

Thank you, V - a brush was the very first technique I was going to mention.

In addition, take a look at the following plugins / programs:

Pulsar and Quasar by Xero Graphics:
- - - http://www.xero-graphics.co.uk/
- - - http://quasar-photoshop-compatible-plugin.en.softonic.com/

Scarab Labs plugins:
- - - http://www.scarablabs.com/star-filter-photoshop

Topaz Star Efx plugin:
- - - http://photoshopplugins4free.blogspot.com/2013/06/topaz-star-effects-free-download_19.html

Star Filter Pro and Star Spikes Pro by ProDigital Software:
- - - http://www.prodigitalsoftware.com/StarFilterPro2.html
- - - http://www.prodigitalsoftware.com/StarSpikesPro2.html (yes, I know they only show astronomical uses)

The star filters included in Tiffen DFX:
- - - http://www.tiffen.com/star_filters.htm (select "HFX Stars", and "Stars" from the menu)

You can also do it the old fashioned way, using a glass star filter:
- - - http://www.tiffen.com/star_filters.htm

HTH,

Tom M

 

[Tom Mann]

PS - Lighting plays an absolutely key role in this sort of product photography. Lots of little point sources of light (eg, white LEDs) are what you want to bring out the desirable glints in diamonds, but will leave deep shadows, so you also need a bit of diffuse background fill to bring up the shadows without overwhelming the highlights. Next time you go to a decent jewelery shop, look up at the ceiling and notice what they use.

T

 

[Cjay]

Awesome advice-Thanks everyone!

 

[Tom Mann]

You are quite welcome. Don't forget to drop back in and show us how it worked out for you!

Also, don't forget the little "Thanks" button on the lower LH corner of each post.

Cheers,

Tom M

 

[IamSam]

You can also use this set of Glint brushes.