how to remove dirt/stains from the classical column in this photo?

[phillip518]

Hi:

This is part of the background in a photo. I am trying to remove the dirt/stains from the columns to give the building a purified or even heavenly look.

But the base of the columns prove very challenging to me and I don't even know how to go about to do it while still maintain their geometric shapes.

It would be greatly appreciated if someone shed some light on this.

Thanks.

[Silkrooster]

Try Filter>Noise>Dust & Scratches.

It will blur the image a bit, Just so you are aware.

[phillip518]

I did try that, but couldn't remove those large, dark areas at the bases of the columns. It turned them into long, flattened band of darkness.

[Silkrooster]

Clone tool will make quick work of that since the pattern is repetitive. Any small blemishes left over can be fixed with the heal tool.

[davescm]

Hi

A bit of cloning on the column verticals

A bit of painting on the column bases

Finally a curve set to screen blend mode

Dave

[joanH]

Hello Silkrooster, This is a tough one - if it is doable at all. It might take a serious makeover.

The usual tools aren't too great.

I lightened the photo print a bit and then took it into Raw Filter. Using all the wonderful sliders there - see how much white you can clear and not oversaturate the building's white highlight areas. Once you get the picture sharp enough, you can go to Curves, or filters, or the highlight tools along with the rubbing finger - use a light touch. I even laid in a Gradient or two in specific difficult areas.

So, experimentation is good. You might stumble upon something quite wonderful. Please share if you do. Best wishes, JH

[joanH]

Oh yes, clone and healing tools help. JH

[Semaphoric]

How about the Clone Stamp tool?

[Norman Sanders]

The image moves from a neutral gray on the left to a slight yellow to a pinkish on the right (according to the Lab Color Info panel.) In addition, the scene shown is in soft focus.

It is apparent, though, that the dark stains are a darker tone but almost the same color as the surrounding area, which is good news.

It means that, if only the lightness of the stained areas could be adjusted, separate from the color, you would be well on your way.

Only Lab color offers that advantage.

The L channel affects only lightness and it is the only channel requiring work.

1. Change the Mode from RGB to Lab Color and create 0a duplicate layer.

2. Choose the L Channel, then click on the Lab Channel. You will see the full color image but only the L channel will be adjusted.

3 . Use the Dodge tool at maximum softness and a low value (in the Options bar...perhaps 10% ti start), and paint the stained areas in mall strokes until you reach a suitable lightness. (Each stroke increases the lightness).. The process, going from one place to another, goes surprisingly swiftly. Remember that slight variation in tone of the out of focus object will be lost in the total scene.

4. When complete, return to RGB mode.

[joanH]

Hi Norman,

I am going to try out your method. I am always looking for good and easy ideas. JH

[Norman Sanders]

Great. Please post a sample.  One hint, Joan: I found if you stroke in the direction of the stain (horizontal on base, vertical columns), it is an advantage. Good luck.