If you’re trying to hide someone’s identity or simply experimenting with a unique look for your photos, learning how to pixelate a picture in Adobe Photoshop can open up new creative possibilities for you!
In this short guide, we’ll show you two ways to apply the pixelation filter in Photoshop with step-by-step instructions and some tips to improve your image.
Table of Contents
Methods to Pixelate a Picture in Adobe Photoshop
Photoshop offers two effective methods to pixelate images. Let’s discuss them along with the downside:
Method 1: Mosaic Filter
Mosaic is a dedicated pixelation filter in Photoshop that divides an image into uniform, square blocks to give you a classic look. However, this method offers little control over the area you want to pixelate.
Method 2: Lasso Tool and Mosaic Filter
This method gives you more control to select the desired parts of the image using the “Lasso Tool” and then apply the mosaic filter to pixelate it. Fair warning, though – it takes a bit more time and steady hands to get those selections just right.
Steps to Make Picture More Pixelated
The mosaic filter is the easiest and simplest way to apply different levels of pixelation to your pictures. Here’s how:
Step 1: Import Your Image
In the first step, launch Photoshop and click “Open” on the main dashboard. Browse through your PC to select the image you want to pixelate and click “Open” again.
In the “Layers” panel, right-click the background layer and click “Duplicate Layer.” Rename it to the “Pixelated layer” and click “OK” to save your changes.
Step 2: Apply the Mosaic Effect
In the next step, click “Filter” in the top ribbon, choose “Pixelate” from the sub-menu, and select “Mosaic.”
Drag the slider below “Cell Size” or manually enter the value in the given box to adjust the intensity of the pixelation and click “OK” to apply the filter.
Preview the image and see if the pixelation effect is on point. Otherwise, repeat the above steps to increase the intensity.
Step 3: Export the Image
Lastly, click the “File” option in the top left corner of the Photoshop interface, select “Export,” and choose “Export As” from the sub-menu.
Now, select the image file format & size from the right panel and click “Export.” Choose the location where you want to save the pixelated photo on your computer and click “Save.”
Tips & Tricks
Experiment With Cell Size
The cell size in the mosaic filter controls the level of pixelation. So, it’s best to start with a low intensity and increase gradually to get the desired effect.
Use Smart Filter
Before applying a pixelation filter, convert your picture to a Smart Filter so you can make non-destructive edits. With this, you can easily adjust the pixelation level or remove the effect altogether.
Combine With Other Effects
Layer the Mosaic Filter with effects like Blur, Noise, or Gradient Overlay to create a creative look. For example, apply a slight blur after pixelation to soften the blocky effect or mix the filter with color overlays to get more artistic results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overdoing Pixelation
Applying pixelation can make your image look overly distorted and unrecognizable. Therefore, always try to find the right balance between pixelation level and image picture clarity to maintain enough details to convey your message.
Ignoring Layer Duplicates
If you fail to duplicate the original layer before applying the Mosaic Filter, it can make it impossible to reverse or modify changes later. Always work on a duplicate to preserve the original image for backup.
FAQs
Can I Pixelate Text Using the Mosaic Filter?
Yes, you can apply the pixelation filter to only the text part in your image using the Mosaic filter in Photoshop. To do this, apply the effect to the picture, then use the “Lasso” or “Rectangular Marquee” tool to trace out the text and create a mask to apply pixelation to it. The rest of your image will remain clear and sharp.
Can I Adjust the Pixelation Effect After Applying the Mosaic Filter?
If you’ve applied the smart filter on your picture before overlaying the Mosaic filter, you can easily adjust the pixelation effect. For this, duplicate the background layer from the layers panel, click “Filter” in the top menu ribbon, and choose “Pixelation” > “Mosaic.” Now, to adjust the effect, double-click the icon below Mosaic in the layers panel and drag the Cell Size slider to set the right pixelation level.
Is There a Way To Preview the Mosaic Effect Before Applying It?
When you select “Mosaic” under the Pixelation filter menu, it opens a preview window where you can see the effect and adjust the cell size before you finalize it.
Conclusion
That concludes our guide on how to pixelate a picture using the Mosaic filter in Adobe Photoshop. We’ve also shared some useful tips and common mistakes to avoid.
Remember, the key is to practice and play around with different settings to create a perfect pixelated artwork.
