Fix Blurry Photos in Photoshop with High Pass Sharpening
This quick method uses High Pass sharpening on a Smart Object so you can refine the strength any time. You’ll paint sharpening only where you want it, and optionally boost or tone it down with duplicates and opacity. An included action can automate the whole process for one‑click results.
Step-by-step instructions
Duplicate and prep the layer
Select the photo layer.
Press Ctrl/Cmd + J to duplicate.
Go to Image → Adjustments → Desaturate.
Convert to a Smart Object
Right‑click the duplicate layer → Convert to Smart Object.
This keeps the sharpening editable.
Apply High Pass sharpening
Go to Filter → Other → High Pass…
Adjust Radius until details appear (e.g., around 2.6 px), then click OK.
Change the layer’s Blend Mode to Linear Light.
Reveal sharpening selectively
Alt/Option‑click the Add Layer Mask icon to create a black (hidden) mask.
Select the Brush Tool (B) with a soft white brush.
Paint over areas to sharpen (e.g., eyes, face) as needed.
Fine‑tune intensity
Press Ctrl/Cmd + J to duplicate the High Pass layer to increase strength.
Lower the layer Opacity to taste for a subtler effect.
Double‑click the High Pass entry under the layer to tweak Radius if needed.
Optional: One‑click via action
Go to Window → Actions.
Load the provided action, select it, and click the Play button.
Paint with a soft white brush on the mask to apply sharpening where desired.
