Red Eye Reduction

Red eyes don't have to ruin a photograph. With image editing software, there are many options for reducing red eye, often to the point where it's not noticeable in the final photo. The method you choose depends on what works best for your particular picture. Sometimes the automatic red eye removal tools included with the software will work great, but other times you'll need to experiment and remove the red eyes manually.

Automatic Red Eye Remover

Automatic red eye remover tools are packaged with most photo editing software. They are designed to save time and make the job easier. They don't always work as expected, but are a great first option to try, especially when you are in a hurry or are processing a large number of photos.

Clone Tool

If you have only one red eye, or another person in the picture without red eye, you can sometimes use the clone tool packaged with your photo editing software to remove the red eye. In cases where you only need to remove red from the pupil and not from the iris, this is a very effective method. Cloning allows you to retain the natural reflective properties of the eye while covering over the red.

Coloring

Coloring over the pupil, especially in severe cases of red eye, can be effective but must be done carefully to avoid looking sloppy. It is best to sample the color that you want and reduce the opacity as much as possible while still covering the red. Reducing the opacity of the color will allow some of the reflections in the eye to come through, keeping it looking natural.

Selective Darkening

Selectively darkening the pupil, if the red eye is minimal, is also a very effective strategy. Burn tools work well for this, but if your software doesn't offer a burn tool there is another option. Select only the area of the eye you wish to darken and use the brightness tool to darken the pupil.

References

• Creativepro.com; Five ways to reduce red eye