I was recently asked about an impasto canvas appearance on an image and it got me to thinking that this was the kernel of another unique image effect that could be encapsulated onto a Photoshop layer.
Impasto is the intentional application of thick paint on the canvas. It give a painting a strong physical presence. John's Impasto Varnish adds a virtual patina to an image. The appearance of this effect relies on a virtual light source to highlight and shadow the otherwise clear varnish. I've created both portrait and landscape versions to accomodate the format of the source image.
John's Impasto Varnish is 8X10@300dpi. The PSD format files are in Grayscale Mode to reduce file size. You'll need to convert them to RGB Mode to use with color imagery. Because of the texturing in the files, they don't compress a great deal. Be advised before you start downloading, the ZIP file is 33MB! These files will open in Painter.
The ZIP files are available on the Resource page of my website.
John - when I go to your website and click on Resources link I only get 3 items, 1) Painter Tutorials, 2) Read the monthly column, and 3) John's vignettes. No 4th option.
I simply don't understand why people just don't take up painting. Don't misunderstand me your items are nice but I guess I'm the one that doesn't get it... lol
Edit: Went to your site, I get it now...$$$$$$$ Jeeze
Thank you for sharing. I'm not too thrilled with the "impasto" effect one can generate in Photoshop. From your examples, I'd say you have it nailed. Good work. And thanks again.