Is there a Photoshop filter that does this?

[Makoto]

Basically, I'm wondering if there's a PS filter that can apply a metallic white (light) highlight to a selected area (the gloss effect, but the selected area's already probably fully-colored, otherwise). I know there are billions of tutorials about how to create the 'gloss effect'/gel(Aqua) buttons/etc. on the net, but what I'm looking to do is experiment with the highlight on already-colored pictures, and see how it looks... so spending the time changing layers and masks isn't really a good idea. (At least, in this instance.)

[Spokavriel]

I'm not sure you can do it without at least creating masks and using the layers. Well without completely messing up the coloring...

[Makoto]

It should be theoretically possible to do it in a simple manner...

Take the selected area, subtract a small gutter from it (depending on the size of the area). Calculate a shape for the highlight. Then just paint the white highlight over the top of the area, with the edges of the highlight blurred/feathered/etc.

(yeah, yeah - I just prefer to do the drawing, rather than discuss it. )

[Spokavriel]

You might be able to make a routine for it but it could end up more trouble than it's worth. And while I've watched these things done I can't afford the software for myself and muddle through using MS Paint.

[Makoto]

You could always try free alternatives like The GIMP and Paint.NET, among others (I just can't remember them at the moment, though)... not sure if any of them will work if you're still using the WinME system, though. Earlier versions of those two I mentioned above might. I haven't had much reason to test them on my 98 setup, because I have PS Elements and PhotoFinish installed on that tower. I've experimented with The GIMP on our XP and Vista setups, though.

[Cheb]

>I can't afford the software for myself and muddle through using MS Paint.
Shame to you.
http://www.gimp.org/downloads/
It's available for years now. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GIMP

[Makoto]

...except support for Win9X/ME systems may be a little sketchy, but Spokavriel shouldn't have to worry about that.

For Windows builds of The GIMP, though, I recommend the ones at http://gimp-win.sourceforge.net/ .