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Photoshop Processing

How to Fix Grainy Photos in Photoshop

Szilard Kovacs
by Szilard Kovacs
Last updated: 21/10/2024-4 min read
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Struggling to fix grainy photos can be frustrating. This guide offers a comprehensive, step-by-step process to effectively use Photoshop for this task. Mastering these steps can significantly enhance your photo editing skills and ensure your images always look professional.

Step 1. Duplicate the Background Layer

Firstly, you need to create a copy of your original image. This is done by duplicating the background layer. This ensures that you have a backup of your original image in case you need to start over.

A photo editing software, where the user is applying a new layer.

Step 2. Convert Layer into Smart Object

Next, convert the duplicate layer into a Smart Object. This will allow you to apply filters non-destructively, meaning you can always undo or adjust them later without affecting the original image.

Adobe Photoshop program showing an image of a woman, displaying various editing tools and panels commonly used in the software.

Step 3. Apply Surface Blur Filter

Now, you need to apply the Surface Blur filter. This filter helps to smooth out the graininess in your image by blurring the entire layer.

Adobe Photoshop application, showing the process of creating and customizing a template.

Step 4. Adjust Radius and Threshold

After applying the Surface Blur filter, adjust the radius and threshold settings. These settings control how much blurring is applied and how the filter identifies edges in your image.

A woman with her head in her hands, set against an outdoor backdrop.

Step 5. Add Noise to the Image

Step 5.1. Use Add Noise Filter

To counteract the blurring effect and add a bit of texture back into your image, use the Add Noise filter. This will introduce a bit of grain, giving your image a more natural look.

A photo editing software interface, showcasing the editing process and tools.

Step 5.2. Use Gaussian Distribution

When adding noise, make sure to use the Gaussian distribution. This type of noise distribution results in a more realistic and less harsh effect.

A woman with long hair in a white top is posing in front of a camera.

Step 6. Adjust Layer Opacity

After adding noise, adjust the opacity of the layer to balance the effect. The goal is to reduce graininess without losing too much detail.

Adobe Photoshop open, showcasing its user interface and some of the tools available for editing images.


Grainy Image
Fixed Grainy Image
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