Creating the see-through clothes effect in Photoshop involves using specific image editing techniques to make garments appear transparent, revealing the background or the human body beneath. In this guide I will show you how to achieve this effect by manipulating layers, adjusting opacity, and applying blending modes.

What is an X-ray Photo in Photoshop?

An X-ray photo in Photoshop is an image editing technique that creates the illusion of transparency in clothes or garments. This technique enables you to see the background or the human body behind the clothing. The effect is achieved by manipulating layers, adjusting opacity, and using blending modes.

5 Steps to Make See-Through Clothes in Photoshop

Creating the see-through clothes effect in Photoshop involves several precise steps to manipulate the image’s layers, opacity, and blending modes. Follow these steps carefully to achieve the desired effect

Step 1: Open Your Image in Photoshop

Use the shortcut “Ctrl + O” (if you are using photoshop on Mac use Cmd+O) to open your image in Photoshop. Make sure your image opens as a Background.

Open Your Image in Photoshop

Step 2: Select the Clothes Area to Make Transparent

Check the selection bar as shown in the following picture, and select the Pen Tool. Also, you can use the shortcut “P” to activate it.

Pen Tool Selection

Add a Path

Then, go to the Path Panel and create Path 1.

Add a Path

Create a Complete Path

Now, take your time and create an accurate path around the garment.

Please ask for a suitable image from a designer.

Create a Complete Path

Make Selection of the Path

When the total path is ready, right-click on your image. Next, click on “Make Selection”.

Please ask for a suitable image from a designer.

Make Selection of the Path

Step 3: Duplicate the Selected Clothing

After that, you have to create a separate layer of the new path or selection. The layer will appear as “Layer 1”. Also you can use the shortcut: Ctrl + J (or if you are a mac user use Cmd + J)

Layer of the Selection

Step 4: Apply Transparency to the Clothing

Keeping “Layer 1” selected you have to click on the icon of Create a New Fill or Adjustment Layer”. You need to select “Levels” in this case. Instantly, you will see a new layer named “Level 1” right above the “Layer 1”

Add an Adjustment Layer

Adjust the Properties

Finally, change the “Properties” (RGB) to change the transparency of the “Layer 1” where you have separated the path of the clothing.

Step 9 Adjust the Properties 1

Step 5: Finalize Your Edited Image

Zoom in and review the details to ensure the effect looks realistic. Then Save Your Image: Go to File > Save As to save your edited image.

final result

Photoshop Tutorial to Making See-Through Clothes:

Final Notes

In this comprehensive guide, I showed how to create the illusion of see-through clothing in Photoshop using various methods: Selection and Adjustment Layers, Layer Masking, and Blending Modes.

Remember, the key to a successful see-through clothing effect lies in choosing the right method for your specific fabric type and utilizing a combination of techniques for optimal results. Therefore, don’t hesitate to experiment and have fun with your creativity. Moreover, while exploring these methods, prioritize ethical considerations and always seek consent when working with images of people. Check out our other blogs to discover more Photoshop tips and tricks.

Author

  • Emily Duncan an image retoucher of imageretouchinglab.com

    Hi there! I'm Emily Duncan, an image retoucher at Image Retouching Lab. With over 6 years of experience, I'm passionate about enhancing images to perfection. I love sharing tips and tutorials on our website to help others master the art of image editing.

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