One of my new favorite filters in Nik Software’s new Color Efex Pro 4 is the new, fantastic Detail Extractor filter, which I found works especially well on grunge subjects like old cars.

But, I found that detail-enhancing filters, for example Tonal Contrast and Detail Extractor could make an image a bit flat if used on the high end of the settings. I also found that in Color Efex Pro 4, Glamour Glow can soften the image a bit too much for my taste. So, it made sense to combine the two at various opacities to get the best of both worlds and the look I was searching for.

The first image is au naturale, and as you can see, is in dire need of some Detail Extractor!

Normally, when first adjusting a filter, I’ll max it out on the slider, and then back it off until I get what I want. However, in this case, visualizing my next filter, I kept it at the maximum setting.

To add depth to the image, I added Glamour Glow, which had the effect of creating a more dense look, while also darkening the background. Then, to create separation between the headlamps and the body of the car, I chose the “minus” Control Point to dial back to 50% opacity in the headlamps. This was sufficient to create the 3 dimensional look.