Dodge and burn like a pro

Using this technique you are dodging and burning the actual image. This means you can easily burn or dodge away details you wanted to keep. To dodge and burn without destroying any details use a non destructive method. Set up a new layer and fill with 50% grey. Set this layer to overlay from the layers menu. Then use the dodge and burn tools on this layer only. If you require harsher effects simply add another layer, you can even have different layers for highlights and shadows.

I agree with the above post. The 'technique' shown is (excuse me) rather amateur. Non-destructive methods are better for any editing and one (or two) layers of 50% Grey work far better. It also has the advantage of opacity control and possible blend mode changes.

This is not "expert" Photoshop. No self-respecting "expert" would dodge and burn photos this way. A better description would be "how to use the dodge and burn tool." Once upon a time (say Photoshop 4), this was the way of dodging and burning, but with adjustment layers and overlay modes (not to mention layer masks), this is certainly NOT the "expert" way.

I work this way with most of b/w stuff using the quick stroke method at 6 or 7% exposure. It's easy to choose what you are going to dodge, or burn, too (shadows, midtones, or highlights) via the drop-down menu on the menu bar. I have brought to life many an image that would have otherwise been deemed by me as 'ordinary' this way. Adjustment layers are more appropriate if an image needs some heavy, less subtle work doing to it. Otherwise dodging and burning is an excellent way to give an image a quick polish.