I just spotted a video on Lynda.com, a very reliable online resource for learning. It describes using the “patch” tool as a useful tool for repairing scratches, tears and damage.
There is no doubt this tool is a great tool. In this case, I feel that using something just because it is there, is not always a good idea.
The video suggests you let the “content aware” algorithm do the work for you. Setting the parameters from “very loose” to “very strict.” I tried this with one of my images with damage and each and every parameter tested gave me a poor result, where the patched damage took a darker tone. See the first video below for how Bryan suggests it should work.
Fixing rips and creases by Bryan O’Neil Hughes
When I used the standard method of the patch it worked better in every case. Feel free to use the Lynda method but I would suggest using just the patch on its own. I am sure that Bryan O’Neil Hughes was just trying to show us that there are other methods to use but sometimes leaving it alone is just as good. Here is my quick test to explain why I have never used this option.
I am sure that the content aware patch has its place but I could not get it to work on my image and never use it. Sure I use content-aware occasionally but even then and more often than not I have to correct it. By trying out these methods you will find out what works best for you. it may be that “content aware patch” works in your images. If it does let me know and I’ll see if I can post an update here to show the example. Once you know what works you can increase your workflow and add this skill to your photo restoration toolbox.
Too busy to learn these techniques and want me to restore your photo?, check out my main photo repair page for more details on how I can help you and how you can hire me.
I always clean the area around a “patch” area and am very aware of the bleed you get when try to patch too near a contrasting area, In this case though the normal patch works great and i haven’t found any use for the variants offered by content aware patch. I find in too random. I have a very good eye for where to take my patch from and sometimes from teh most unlikely of areas to fill the gap I am trying to mend.
I was looking forward to have a look through Bryan’s tips, but will have to wait until I’m in the office as I can’t see the Lynda video – I’m wondering if the content aware problem you’re seeing could be because of the proximity to ‘unhealed’ areas above the image? The colour variation that comes in suggests that ‘don’t know which bit to sample’ problem the spot healing brush and traditional Patch sometimes show. Having offered that excuse, I’d also agree that the traditional patch tool produces decent results without the colour variations and pixelation. Final suggestion to get it to work – drop resolution to 96ppi? 😉
All the best,
Dave.