Radial gradient layer in black and white photo

[daveb2]

I am a B&W photographer. My RAW files end up a bit too dark and, consequently, lose detail. I am trying to learn how to use the radial gradient tool to lighten up areas.

I would appreciate being pointed to a few good tutorials for beginners on this topic. I am not talking about using the Gradient Map.

Thanks,

[firstdefence]

@daveb2

This method uses shapes with elliptical or radial gradients, the white one one side is set to 100% opacity, then set the other side to white but set that to 0% see fig 2.

I tried with black set at 0% on the right see fig 1. but the former seems to work better and gives a more even highlight.

fig 1.

fig 2.

[Pšenda]

11 hours ago, daveb2 said:

I am trying to learn how to use the radial gradient tool to lighten up areas.

Try Lighting effects:

https://affinity.help/photo/en-US.lproj/pages/Filters/lighting_effects.html

[David in Яuislip]

I would also suggest experimenting with the Overlays tab in Develop Persona using elliptical gradient overlays. They are very useful for applying local adjustments. I would expect a better result since you're working with raw data
The attached file shows a backlit window somewhat burnt out. I tried to recover what was left then altered the white balance to simulate sunlight, I used a brush overlay to exclude the OPA but the principles are the same for gradients.
It's a bit quirky and a shame that the corrections can't be saved so you could try again later but once you hit Develop that's it

rawMasking.afphoto

[Atenni]

@firstdefence Can you tell me please how to insert the shapes with elliptical or radial gradients? The problem is that I can't find the gradient panel in Affinity Photo.

I know this is an old thread and perhaps Affinity Photo doesn't provide the panel anymore, but I hope you can help.

Edited August 8, 2021 by Atenni

[Komatös]

Hello and welcome to the forums, @Atenni

When you have selected the shape, you can also create gradients in the colour selection field.

[Atenni]

Hello @Komatös, I found the radial gradient and the settings now. Everything works fine. Thank for your help.

[Komatös]

You are welcome.