Capturing the perfect photo can sometimes be a challenge, especially when someone’s eyes are closed. Fortunately, there are ways to open eyes in a photo using simple editing techniques. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you achieve this.
Introduction
Whether it’s a family portrait, a group selfie, or a special event photo, closed eyes can spoil an otherwise perfect picture. Fortunately, modern photo editing tools make it possible to open eyes in a photo seamlessly. This guide will take you through the steps to do so using popular editing software.
Tools You’ll Need
To open eyes in a photo, you’ll need photo editing software. Some popular options include:
- Adobe Photoshop
- GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program)
- Pixlr
Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Choose the Right Photo
Start by selecting a photo where the subject’s eyes are closed. Additionally, find another photo of the same person with their eyes open. This second photo will be used to transplant the open eyes into the first photo.
Step 2: Open Both Photos in Your Editing Software
Open both the photo with closed eyes and the photo with open eyes in your chosen editing software. Ensure that both images are of similar quality and resolution for the best results.
Step 3: Select the Open Eyes
Use the selection tool in your editing software to carefully select the open eyes from the second photo. In Photoshop, you can use the Lasso Tool or the Quick Selection Tool. In GIMP, use the Free Select Tool or the Fuzzy Select Tool.
Step 4: Copy and Paste
Once you’ve selected the open eyes, copy the selection and paste it onto the photo with closed eyes. This will create a new layer with the open eyes.
Step 5: Position and Adjust
Move the open eyes into place over the closed eyes in the first photo. Use the transform tools to resize and rotate the eyes if needed. Make sure they align perfectly with the original eyes.
Step 6: Blend the Edges
To make the eyes look natural, blend the edges of the pasted eyes with the surrounding area. In Photoshop, you can use the Eraser Tool with a soft brush to gently erase the hard edges. In GIMP, use the Blur or Smudge Tool.
Step 7: Adjust Color and Brightness
Match the color and brightness of the transplanted eyes with the rest of the face. In Photoshop, use the Hue/Saturation and Brightness/Contrast adjustments. In GIMP, use the Color Balance and Brightness-Contrast tools.
Step 8: Final Touches
Make any final adjustments to ensure the eyes look natural and seamless. Zoom in to check for any imperfections and fix them using the Clone Stamp Tool or Healing Brush in Photoshop, or the Clone Tool and Heal Tool in GIMP.
Conclusion
Opening eyes in a photo is a useful skill that can save many cherished memories. With the right tools and techniques, you can achieve realistic results that make the photo look perfect.