Photoshop Tutorial: Transforming AI-Generated Images into Retro-Futurism Artwork

AI-generated images are all the rage, but they can lack personality.

They often look too polished, with an artificial shine that makes them feel less authentic.

In this tutorial, we’ll use Photoshop to rework a MidJourney-generated image of an astronaut into a retro-futurism image that can be used for multiple applications. We’ll focus on refining the details, adding dynamic elements, and wrapping up with subtle finishing touches like film grain to tie it all together.

Original AI image from Midjourney

Final Photoshop Edit

Step 1: Set the Scene

Before making any big edits, extend your canvas to give your design breathing room:

1. Open your AI image in Photoshop.

2. Select the Crop Tool and drag the edges of your canvas outward.

3. Enable Generative Expand to fill the blank areas automatically. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect—we’ll refine these sections later.

Step 2: Clean Up the Base Image

AI can add odd details (extra fingers, random artifacts, or strange textures). Let’s tidy things up:

• Use the Spot Healing Brush Tool to clean up unwanted details.

• For more stubborn areas, try the Clone Stamp Tool. Select a nearby clean area (hold Alt/Option and click), then paint over the messy parts.

Step 3: Adding Depth and Interest

Incorporate Background Elements

A flat background can make your image look boring. Here’s how to enhance it:

1. Use the Lasso Tool to roughly select the area around your astronaut.

2. Go to Select > Inverse to focus on the background.

3. Use Generative Fill to replace sections with dynamic elements like stars or distant planets. Be specific with your prompts (e.g., “starry space with distant red planet”).

Adjust the Composition

To balance your design:

1. Add elements like jetpack flames using external resources or hand-drawn elements. For example:

   • Import a flame image.

   • Clean the edges using the Eraser Tool.

   • Resize and position using Free Transform (Ctrl+T/Command+T).

2. Blend these elements seamlessly with Adjustment Layers (e.g., Levels or Hue/Saturation).

Step 4: Refining the Retro-Futurism Look

Retro-futurism often features bold colors, soft gradients, and a grainy, nostalgic feel:

1. Color Adjustments:

   • Go to Image > Adjustments > Replace Color. Select overly bright areas and tweak them to align with your retro-futuristic palette (reds, blues, yellows, or muted pastels).

   • Use Gradient Maps to introduce warm or cool tones across the image for a cohesive look.

2. Lighting Effects:

   • Add a subtle halo or glow around the astronaut using the Brush Tool. Set the brush to a low opacity, pick a soft blue or red, and gently paint around the edges.

Step 5: Add the Final Touches

Now that your image is mostly complete, it’s time for the small details that pull everything together:

• Film Grain:

  • Go to Filter > Noise > Add Noise.

  • Choose 2-4% for a subtle texture.

  • Use Gaussian distribution and ensure Monochromatic is selected.

• Vignette:

  • Select the Burn Tool set to Shadows at low exposure (5-10%) to darken the corners of the image.

Final Thoughts

With Photoshop, you can take an AI-generated image and completely transform its aesthetic, adding depth, personality, and a unique touch that AI alone can't deliver. If you'd like to learn more about tools like this—or need help with your own projects—head to Pixelhaze Academy Memberships, where we offer workshops, tutorials, and even 1-1 coaching.

Takeaway Tips:

1. Always clean up AI artifacts before diving into creative edits.

2. Generative Fill can be a time-saver, but manual tweaks are key for professional results.

3. Subtle details, like film grain and lighting, make all the difference.

Cheers,
Elwyn