How to Create a Realistic Spotlight Effect in Photoshop

A spotlight is an effective way to draw the attention of the viewers to a subject. Spotlights are widely used in concerts, theaters, and different kinds of TV shows. In this tutorial, we will show how to create a realistic spotlight effect in Photoshop using filters.

Creating a Realistic Spotlight Effect Using Photoshop Lighting Effects

Adobe Photoshop makes it easier to work with lighting in the context of an image. So, we're going to use the lighting effects filter in Photoshop to make an image spotlight effect. Let's begin.

Step 1: Open the Image

Press CTRL+O on Windows or Command+O on Mac to open an image. This is will bring a dialog box from where you can choose your preferred image.

Step 2: Add Lighting Effects Filter

Adding lighting effects in Photoshop is so easy and simple. To do that, go to Filter> Render> Lighting Effects to enable the effect. After that, you'll get full control over the lighting on your photo. And it set the default effect to "Spot Light".

This allows you to apply texture while also adjusting the photo's lighting, color, exposure, gloss, and metallic effects, among other things.

Step 3: Adjust the Lighting Area

The most important step is to alter the lighting area. You can get the optimal results if you have a basic understanding of lighting direction. Playing with the circle points, on the other hand, gives the sense of adjusting the lighting based on the image.

After you're done with this, you can proceed to the next stage.

Step 4: Final Step

If you want to add some flair to your project, you can do so by choosing a color from the properties. However, picking the appropriate color might be tricky.

So, if you think your photo doesn't need additional color, then you're okay with that. Otherwise, choose a color that complements the photograph. Based on the visual context, we picked the red hue to emphasize passion and energy.

Before and After

2nd Method to Add Spotlight Effect in Photoshop

You are probably looking for another way to add a spotlight effect, right? We'll show you how to do it in Photoshop, so you can easily apply it to your next project and bring something new to the table.

Step 1: Create a Solid Color Layer and Select Black

Open the image that you want to create a spotlight on in Photoshop.

From the new fill or adjustment layer create a solid color layer and select black from the color picker.

Step 2: Decrease the Opacity of the Layer and Create a Selection

From the layers panel, decrease the opacity of the solid color layer.

Next, create a selection with the elliptical marquee tool.

Now select the foreground color as black from the toolbar.

Also, select the mask from the layers panel and press “Alt + Del” to fill the mask with black.