Photoshop Tutorials

Step 4: Save the image for later

Later in the tutorial, we'll need to distort the photo so that it looks folded. For that step, we'll be using the Distort filter which requires opening a bump map file. Now that we have the texture created, we'll save this bump map we've created for later. Choose File> Save As and save this temporarily on the desktop as a Photoshop document (ex. bump map.psd).

Step 5: Convert the bump map into a texture using Photoshops Emboss filter

Using the Emboss filter, we can convert the bump map into a 3D texture. Choose Filter> Stylize> Emboss. In the Emboss tool, set the amount to height to 1 pixel and amount to 500%. You can adjust the angle to modify the direction of the light to match. Sometimes you need to have the angle match the lighting. For example, if you were to hang this picture on the wall with a light right above the image, you'll need to set the angle to 90º so that it matches the direction of the light.

The texture lacks contrast but we'll fix this in the next steps by increasing the contrast. You may be wondering why we're not fixing this by adjusting the height in the Emboss filter settings. The reason for this is because creases will become blurred as the height is increased. Unless you're trying to make your photo look like it was printed on a piece of fabric, a wrinkled photo won't look very realistic with soft creases.

Step 6: Blend the layer using the Soft Light mode

Before we fix the contrast of the texture, change the blending mode to Soft Light. This will give us a live preview of the effect while we're adjusting the contrast.

Step 7: Adjust the depth using the Brightness/Contrast adjustment

By increasing the contrast of the wrinkle texture, the wrinkles will look stronger and become more visible. Choose Image> Adjustments> Brightness/Contrast to open the Brightness/Contrast adjustment tool. If you're using Photoshop CS3, checkmark Use Legacy because the new algorithm in Photoshop CS3 isn't able to add enough contrast to the texture. Slide the contrast slider towards to right to increase the contrast. As you're adjusting the contrast, look at the image behind it to see a live preview of the effect.

Step 8: Distort the photo using the Displace filter

Before we distort the layer, it is a good idea to keep the original image as the "Background" layer so that you have it as a reference when you open the file back in the future. Select the Background layer and press Ctrl+J to duplicate the layer or choose Layer> Duplicate Layer.