How do I create a vignette in Photoshop Elements 11?

Question

I'm new to Photoshop Elements 11. I am trying to create a vignette effect on some pictures.

I'm using the Guided view with "Lomo Camera Effect" (but only the vignette option, not the lomo). I find that the default vignette Effect settings are too intense, and they don't allow you to tweak them in Guided view. I'd like to use this effect manually. How can I do this?

Here's an example of the Lomo effect. I find it makes the photo a little too dark.

Answer 1

I think the simplest way in PSE11 to create a vignette is to use the guided edit option. Under guided edit under Photo Effects there is a Vignette Effect choice. Once selected you can choose black or white, intensity and also ability to refine the shape.

Answer 2

Here is a couple tutorials about layers in photoshop elements.

TUTORIAL 1

TUTORIAL 2

So after layers make some sense to ya

• make a levels layer.

• Paint the Layer mask so it is white on the edges and corners ( ideally make this the shape of the vignette you would like)

• With the mask selected (it should have a selection bracket around the mask on the curve layer bar, if not: click the mask) apply a blur filter to this black and white mask.

• Now inside your levels (this is the other box to the left of the mask, click it and ) you should be able to drag middle level arrow down to get your desired vignette intensity. Try moving all the arrows around to get different effects on the values in the image.