Task 7 How to Add Noise Texture

In digital imaging, noise refers to a coarse, pointillist pattern that is applied to create a graphic feel in an image. Noise is often used when an image is blurry to start with and resists sharpening with Photoshop's standard filters. In this case, you might like the effect created when you add noise and create a graphic look for the image, masking the lack of sharpness.

1. Open the File

Select File, Open and select the file you want to modify.

2. Select the Noise Filter

Select Filter, Noise, Add Noise to open the Add Noise dialog box.

3. Set the Amount

Move the Amount slider to control the amount of noise in the image. Observe the effect in both the preview window in the dialog box and the original image area.

4. Set the Distribution

Select either the Uniform or Gaussian option to control how the effect is applied. The Gaussian option tends to mimic more closely the noise that appears on the emulsion of photographic film.

5. Select the Monochromatic Effect

Enable or disable the Monochromatic check box and observe the effect this option has on the image. By default, noise is added to an image using randomly colored pixels. These colors can be distracting in some images; the Monochromatic option adds noise using grayscale pixels.

6. Apply the Effect

Click OK to close the Add Noise dialog box and apply the effect.

How-To Hints

Noise on a Layer

Instead of applying the Noise filter directly to the image, create a new layer filled with a color. Apply the Noise filter to the new layer and then adjust the opacity or blending mode to combine the color layer with the image layer. This approach lets you turn the effect on and off and apply it selectively using layer masks (refer to Part 10, Task 8, "How to Add a Layer Mask").