How to Create the Solarization Effect Digitally

Solarization is an effect generally created in a darkroom that was used by early surrealist photographers like Man Ray to create unusual imagery. Here's how to achieve that same effect of having both positive and negative qualities in your image by using curves in whatever digital program you use. In this example, I am using Pixlr, since that's the free software I show my beginning students how to use.

[@neilleach5249]

Thank you. Best wishes.

[@judithmonroeart]

You are quite welcome.

[@tiltil9442]

I am almost always using fairly steep W or M shaped curves. The type of of photos I "solarize" are frontal portraits with fairly symmetrical lighting, preferably with little to no shadows under the nose and closed mouth. Try it - great chrome/bronze mask effects are achievable!
Enjoy!

[@tiltil9442]

big Martin Schoeller fan BTW

[@judithmonroeart]

Wonderful! Thanks for the tip!