INTRODUCTION - Here we add motion blur to a picture and use the Eraser Tool to selectively remove blur from certain areas.  Pictures of moving objects are expected to have a bit of blur on the fastest moving areas.

OPEN PHOTOSHOP ELEMENTS AND LOAD A PICTURE - Open Photoshop Elements in the Edit mode.  Hold the Ctrl key and tap the letter O key (Open) > navigate to a pictures folder and click an action picture > click Open > maximize the view with Ctrl + 0 (the number).

CREATE A DUPLICATE LAYER – Hold the Ctrl key and tap the J key (creates a duplicate layer) > double click the name and type Blurred Layer > press the Enter key.

ADD MOTION BLUR – Click Filter + Blur + Motion Blur > try to pick an angle that directs the blur along the line of motion > choose a distance that corresponds to the speed you want to simulate (start with about 40) > click OK.

ERASE BACKGROUND – Select the Eraser Tool, set Mode: Brush, Opacity: 100%, use the [ key to enlarge the tool and ] to reduce size of the tool > erase areas that should show no motion such as background.

ERASE LEADING EDGE – Select the Eraser Tool, set Mode: Brush, Opacity: 30%, use the [ key to enlarge the tool and ] to reduce size of the tool > erase areas that should show no motion such leading edge of the object, eyes, ears, mouth, etc… (it may be necessary to make several passes over some areas).  Use the Zoom Tool and draw a rectangle around a small area.  Hold the Space Bar to activate the move and scroll capability.  Hold the Ctrl key and tap the 0 key (the number key) to enlarge the picture.

CONCLUSION – If a picture of a moving object is taken at a high shutter speed, the object appears to be standing still.  Adding a bit of motion blur in the right places can add  realism and dynamics to an otherwise static picture.

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