Create a double exposure effect in Photoshop

Double exposure effects blend two images to create striking artistic compositions where textures and subjects merge seamlessly. This technique transforms ordinary portraits by layering natural elements like leaves or cityscapes directly onto faces and silhouettes.

The process combines masking, blending modes, and layer adjustments to achieve professional-looking results that would traditionally require specialized camera techniques.

Watch the Tutorial

Video by . Any links or downloads mentioned by the creator are available only on YouTube

Practical Tips for Double Exposure Effects

These key techniques will help you create compelling double exposure compositions:

Use Vivid Light blending mode on your portrait layer to create the strongest integration between subject and texture
Unlink masks from layers using the chain icon so you can move texture elements independently for better positioning
Apply layer masks by holding Alt and dragging from one layer to another to quickly transfer selections
Invert your texture layer using Command+I (Ctrl+I on Windows) to dramatically change color relationships and contrast
Add Hue/Saturation adjustment layers with colorize enabled to unify the overall color scheme and mood

Get tutorials & freebies delivered to you.

Subscribe to the Photoshop Roadmap newsletter, a weekly roundup of new tutorials, insights and quality downloads, trusted by 6500+ readers.

When to Use Saturation vs Vibrance for Better Color Enhancement

While vibrance gets praised for being "gentler" than saturation, the reality is more nuanced. Saturation works like a universal volume knob, boosting all colors equally, while vibrance acts like a smart equalizer, selectively enhancing less saturated areas first. Understanding when each approach serves your creative vision makes the...

How to Check Your Generative Fill Credit Balance in Photoshop

Keeping track of your AI credit usage becomes essential when working with premium generative features. Understanding your remaining balance helps you budget your edits and avoid unexpected interruptions during important projects. The credit system divides features into standard tools (like basic generative fill) that don't consume credits, and...

How to Create Realistic Depth Blur Effects in Photoshop

Creating professional depth of field effects can transform flat images into dynamic photographs with natural-looking focus transitions. Two powerful methods in Photoshop offer different advantages: Neural Filters provide automated depth detection with atmospheric effects like haze, while Camera Raw Filter delivers precise manual control with customizable bokeh shapes. Both techniques...

Three Professional Methods to Fix White Balance in Photoshop

Color casts can ruin even the best photographs, making whites appear yellow, blue, or green instead of neutral. Poor white balance destroys the natural look of your images and creates an unprofessional appearance that's immediately noticeable to viewers. These three techniques provide increasingly precise control over white balance...

Creating Dark Moody Wildlife Photo Edits in Photoshop

Dark, moody wildlife photography transforms ordinary animal portraits into dramatic, atmospheric pieces that capture the mystery and power of nature. This editing approach combines strategic lighting placement, careful color grading, and atmospheric effects to create compelling images that draw viewers into the scene. The workflow begins with essential noise reduction...

How to Create Professional Photo Composites in Photoshop

Creating compelling photo composites requires more than simply placing images together. This comprehensive tutorial demonstrates how to blend multiple elements seamlessly, from matching lighting and color to painting realistic shadows and highlights. The project showcases a dramatic scene inspired by Stranger Things, combining buildings, characters, and atmospheric effects with precise...