Create a hologram effect in Photoshop

Create a hologram effect in Photoshop

Holographic effects transform ordinary subjects into futuristic, translucent projections that appear to emit their own light. This technique combines strategic subject isolation, color manipulation, and layered glow effects to create a convincing sci-fi appearance.

The process builds realistic depth through multiple blur layers while using horizontal line textures to simulate the scanning patterns typical of projected holograms.

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Video by PHLEARN. Any links or downloads mentioned by the creator are available only on YouTube

Practical Tips

Master the hologram effect with these essential techniques for creating convincing light-based projections.

  • Convert your subject layer to a smart object before applying filters to maintain editability
  • Use Screen blend mode for the hologram subject to simulate light emission against the darkened background
  • Apply horizontal line textures through layer masks and blur them heavily to avoid harsh, unrealistic edges
  • Create multiple duplicated blur layers with increasing amounts of gaussian blur for realistic light falloff
  • Paint additional glow areas manually with Color Dodge blend mode to add randomness and prevent the effect from looking too uniform

Explore more futuristic and supernatural effects to expand your digital manipulation skills.

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