Double exposure is a striking visual technique that blends two images into one—usually a portrait combined with a landscape or texture. It’s often used to create surreal, artistic, or emotional effects. And the best part? You can achieve it in Adobe Photoshop without needing any plugins.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to master the double exposure effect using blending modes, layer masks, and adjustment layers. Whether you’re creating album art, conceptual photography, or an eye-catching social post, this tutorial will walk you through every step.
By the end, you’ll be able to create stunning, layered visuals that feel professional and purposeful.
Step-by-Step: Create a Double Exposure in Photoshop
1. Choose Your Two Images
- Pick a portrait with good contrast and a clean background.
- Select a secondary image with strong shapes (landscapes, buildings, trees, smoke, etc.).
- Ideal formats: high-res JPEG or PNG.
2. Open the Portrait in Photoshop
- Go to File > Open and select your portrait image.
- Optionally, duplicate the background layer (
Ctrl + J/Cmd + J) to keep the original intact.
3. Desaturate the Portrait (Optional, for Artistic Control)
- Select the portrait layer.
- Go to Image > Adjustments > Black & White for non-destructive grayscale control.
4. Add the Secondary Image
- Drag and drop the second image into the same document.
- Resize and position it with Free Transform (
Ctrl + T/Cmd + T) so it overlaps the portrait creatively.
5. Set the Blend Mode of the Top Image
- Select the top (landscape) layer.
- Change the blend mode to Screen or Lighten in the Layers panel.
- This allows bright areas of the second image to shine through the portrait.
6. Add a Layer Mask to the Top Image
- With the landscape layer selected, click the Add Layer Mask icon at the bottom of the Layers panel.
- Use a soft black brush to gently mask areas that shouldn’t be visible.
7. Refine the Mask with Gradient or Brush
- For smoother transitions, use the Gradient Tool (G) on the layer mask.
- Alternatively, use a low-opacity brush to paint in subtle details or erase parts.
8. Adjust Contrast and Brightness
- Use Levels or Curves (
Image > Adjustments) on each layer to match lighting and contrast. - Aim for harmony between the subject and overlay.
9. Add a Final Adjustment Layer
- Add a Gradient Map or Color Lookup layer for consistent color grading.
- Try blending it with Soft Light or lowering opacity for subtle mood.
10. Crop and Save Your Image
- Go to Image > Crop if needed, then save via File > Export > Export As to save a web-ready version.
Pro Tips & Workflow Enhancements
- 🎨 Use Smart Objects for non-destructive resizing of images.
- 🌁 Invert the portrait layer (
Ctrl + I) for alternative mood effects. - 🖌️ Experiment with textures like fog, clouds, or paint splashes for abstract results.
- 📷 Use Depth Maps (via displacement filters) to contour overlays around facial features.
- 🔄 Save as a PSD with layers to tweak later or animate later in After Effects.
Advanced Use Case: Multiple Double Exposures
To create a multi-layered story:
- Add more than two images (e.g., double exposure + textures).
- Group layers and mask each group selectively.
- Add custom brush overlays or layer modes (e.g., Multiply for shadows).
This is great for conceptual art, album covers, or posters.
Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Portrait looks too flat | Increase contrast with Curves or Dodge & Burn selectively |
| Secondary image overpowers subject | Lower opacity or mask parts of the overlay |
| Colors clash | Use a Gradient Map or Photo Filter for unified tones |
| Edge artifacts | Use a soft brush on layer mask and Refine Edge for cleaner blends |
| Image looks pixelated | Make sure both images are high-resolution before starting |
Conclusion
The double exposure effect in Photoshop is more than just a trendy look—it’s a creative way to blend storytelling with design. Once you master this technique, you can take it further with color grading, multiple overlays, or even animation.
