How to make image sharper?

[fepedron]

Hi,

I am new to retouching. I have done the attached photo for my friend. My problem now is that I don't know how to make the image sharper with better color. The image also has white stuff all over it that I don't know how to get rid off. Can anyone help me with some tips? Thank you.

[Gary Richardson]

Your image is suffering from a lot of jpeg artifacts, and noise, but had a quick play with it as follows.

Ran it through Neat Image to reduce noise.
Copied to new layer, then applied USM filter and applied hide all layer mask.
Painted with soft white brush to reveal sharpness around mouth, eyes and other areas as needed.

[dechols]

Gary,
What are you talking about "Neat Image"? Where do I find this function?
Thanks,
Dennis

[MBChamberlain]

Neat Image is a third party noise reduction tool, available at Neat Image's website. It is well worth every dime you pay for it.

Michael

[Gary Richardson]

There's also a free version available. Click on the download button, and the demo version is available. It's what I used on the posted image.

[dechols]

WOW!! I just checked it out. This is pretty impressive.

Thanks,
Dennis

[arcadhia]

Mmmh... Dou you think that 'Neat Image' is better thatn Grain Surgery?