3.2 Contrast Techniques

Currently my preferred method to tweak the contrast of my photos is to start by using the “unsharp mask” filter in Photoshop CS3.  The use of unsharp mask limits most contrast changes to the outlines of shapes, essentially contrasting two subjects in an image that are next to one another.  This is a very easy first step and can be achieve by selecting your background layer and applying the unsharp mask filter.  Settings of between 10-20,  40-70, and  0-3  for threshold result in the best images for me.  Feel free to play with it and see the results via the live preview.  

Additionally, if you right click on the background layer and convert it to a smart object, when you apply the filter in the future you will be able to adjust the filter.  Without this step, your filter will apply to the image, and you will not be able to change it without starting from the original raw file once again.

Original Photo as Shot using EF 85 1.2L II @ F1.2 1/3000 Shutter and ISO 100

USM Stage 1, added contrast.

Optional Stage 2 USM for even more contrast

2 USM passes and 1 HIGH PASS overlay

To make additional contrast adjustments, I like to use a curves layer. 
You can then create a more dynamic range for your photo by simply adjusting two points on the curve
you can make a photo go from the dull to depth   in a matter of minutes….