Frequency separation apply image

[Hanban543210]

Hello,

I am having an issue with apply image in photoshop. I've been using it for a bit now and it's been working just fine. All of a sudden it's not working, when I try to apply image and subtract from my blur layer it doesn't "completely" work. The issue is that the image doesn't turn completely grey, it's like a faded and slightly colored version of the greyscale I used to get. I’m not sure what's different this time. I've been using the same settings and following the same rules. How do I get back to complete greyscale? I need it because now instead of just removing texture it moves around color too. 
thanks. 

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[davescm]

Hi

Without seeing the exact steps yout took it is hard to advise but try the exact steps below:

1. Make 2 duplicate copies of your image layer (Ctrl+J twice)

2. Name the lower duplicate - "Low Frequency"

3. Name the upper duplicate - "High Frequency"

4. Select the Low Frequency layer  and use Filter Gaussian Blur (around 6.0)

5. Select the High Frequency layer

6. Go to menu Image > Apply Image

7. Set  Layer as the Low Frequency Layer
    Set channel as RGB
    Set blending to Subtract
    Set Scale to 2

    Set Offset to 128
    Ensure Invert is not checked

8. Click OK

9. Change the High Frequency layer blending mode to "Linear Light"

10 Clone out blemishes on the high frequency layer (ensuring the clone tool is set to current layer)
     Lighten or darken areas on teh low frequency layer

Note : The above steps are for 8 bit/channel images. If you are using 16 bit/channel then change step 7 settings to:
    

Set Layer as the Low Frequency Layer

     Set Channel as RGB
    Set blending to Add
    Set Scale to 2

    Set Offset to 0

    Check Invert next to channel

Dave