Need Help Removing Small Shadows, Background

[bigfatsucka]

Hi RetouchPro Community!

Just stumbled upon this forum today, and had to sign up. This is a truly great resource.

I've tried to follow other posts, but am unable to fix the shadows around my eyes and tie in my latest headshot. I am also up for a better background that is contrasted from the color of my face.

I've already slightly increased the Reds in my face, and I've whitened my teeth a bit.

Any help is much appreciated!!! This picture will be on my website, business cards, etc. so I want it to be as sharp as possible.

TYIA!

[hawkeye60]

Some cloning, painting (soft brush @ low opacity) and spot healing tool. Also whitened the teeth, cleaned up the stray hair and hair on the forehead (clone tool).
Hope this helps you.

[bigfatsucka]

Hawkeye!

This looks much improved. Is there any way you could just writeup a little more on how exactly you made those changes, so I can imitate?

Also, if I wanted to change up the background, do you think it would be better to try and texture the current one, or do something completely different?

Thanks for the fast reply! I'm about to watch these football games, but I like that I got an email notification on my phone. I'll respond back ASAP.

[Mike Needham]

Basic cloning around eyes to sort out dark areas and an overall colour adjustment (targeted reds and yellows with a hue/sat adjustment layer) for the skin and other areas removing the yellow caste. Did a quick (bit scruffy mask of you) and replaced the background with blue to suit your dress (included a slight radial gradient). Final bit of sharpening.

[bigfatsucka]

Holy Mike Needham! This looks amazing - I can't thank you enough.

[Cupcake]

Here is another look.

[bigfatsucka]

rad- thanks! you guys freakin rock.