How to Fix Lazy Eyes in Photos: 3 Easy Ways with Step-by-Step Guide

Lazy eyes in photos often happen because of strabismus, a condition where the eyes are misaligned. Sometimes it’s more noticeable in pictures due to camera angles, uneven lighting, or the subject blinking. Even if someone doesn’t always appear cross-eyed in real life, certain poses or lighting can exaggerate the effect in photos.

Fortunately, with the right lazy eye photo fix methods—whether through AI photo enhancer tools or photo editing for eyes in Photoshop—you can easily achieve eye alignment correction and restore natural balance to your portraits.

Part 1. What Is Lazy Eye in Photos (Strabismus Explained)

Lazy eyes, or strabismus, occur when a person's eyes appear to drift away from each other. This condition is often genetic and may not be correctable. However, it doesn't mean people with lazy eyes should avoid taking photos. Lazy eyes can impact photos in various ways, depending on the underlying cause and how the condition manifests. Common issues include:

• Uneven eyes: The eyes may not be aligned properly, creating a distorted appearance.
• Head tilt: The person may tilt their head to compensate for the misalignment.
• Squinting or closing eyes: The person may squint or close one eye to reduce the double vision caused by lazy eyes.

Photographers should be aware of these potential issues and learn how to work with them effectively. Here we go for fixing lazy eye in pictures.

Part 2. How to Fix Lazy Eyes with Aiarty Image Enhancer

Tired of misaligned eyes ruining your portraits? Aiarty Image Enhancer, an advanced AI photo enhancer, provides an instant lazy eye photo fix. With one click, you can achieve precise eye alignment correction and professional-level portrait retouching, even if you’re new to editing. Try Aiarty Image Enhancer today and see the difference!

• Upscale images to 4K/8K/16K/32K or by 2x/4x/8x with realistic details, even for challenged hair or furs.
• Auto AI inference to denoise, deblur, fix compression artifacts, restore faces and enhance images easily.
• Achieve max quality for print and display, 800% zoom in without pixelation.
• 3 AI models for any image. Optimized for Nvidian/AMD/Intel/CPU

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Tutorial on fix lazy eyes with Aiarty Image Enhancer in one click

Step 1. Free download the AI image enhancer, install and launch it. Load the pictures that have lazy eyes issue.

Step 2. Set the AI model, Upscale  scale and tick on the box of Face Restoration. Then wait for the inference.

Step 3. Expand the Export Settings, set the output format, quality and folder path.

Step 4. Tap the RUN button to export the fixed pictures.

Part 3. How to Fix Lazy Eyes in Photoshop

Adobe Photoshop remains one of the most reliable tools for photo editing for eyes. With features like Liquify and Clone Stamp, you can correct strabismus in photos and perform advanced portrait retouching for natural results.

By mastering these techniques, you can effectively eliminate the distractions caused by lazy eyes, resulting in more visually appealing and professional images. Let's delve into the step-by-step process of correcting lazy eyes in Photoshop.

1. Fix Lazy Eye with Liquify Tool

Step 1. Open your image in Photoshop, ensure the image is high-resolution and well-lit for optimal results.

Step 2. Select the Liquify tool in the Filter menu or by pressing Shift+Ctrl+X.

Step 3. Choose a brush size that is appropriate for the size of the eye and the desired level of correction.

Step 4. Determine which eye is more affected by amblyopia. Then make small adjustments to the eye's shape, position, size and more until you're satisfied.

Step 5. Regularly preview your changes and make adjustments as needed to achieve a natural-looking result.

2. Fix Lazy Eye with Clone Stamp Tool

Step 1. Open your image with lazy eye issue in PhotoShop.

Step 2. Select "Clone Source" from the Window on the toolbar.

Step 3. Click on the "Horizontal flip" next to Width.

Step 4. Choose the "Clone Stamp Tool" on the side toolbar. Adjust the stamp size, then sucking out the eye you're trying to clone while holding on the Alt on the keyboard.

Step 5. Adjust the source position, and angle to correct the lazy eye in picture.

3. Fix Lazy Eye with Lasso Tool

Step 1. Open your image in Adobe Photoshop.

Step 2. Select the area around the subject's eye using the Lasso tool. Duplicate this selected area onto a new layer by pressing Ctrl+J (Windows) or Command+J (Mac).

Step 3. Use the Move tool to adjust the position of the selected eye. Make sure the distance between the pupil and the edge of the eye is consistent in both eyes.

Step 4. Create a mask for the selected eye layer. Use the Brush tool to blend the edges of the mask to match the background. Make sure black is the foreground color when using the brush.

Step 5. To finalize the image, correct the eye color of the lazy eye. Review the final image and save it if you're satisfied with the results.

By following these techniques, you can successfully remove the visual distractions caused by lazy eyes in Photoshop, creating images that are more aesthetically pleasing and professional.

Related search: How to Remove Glare from Glasses in Photoshop >>

Part 4. How to Fix Lazy Eye Online with Fotor

If you prefer an online tool for a quick lazy eye photo fix, Fotor is a simple yet effective choice. While it may not offer the same depth as Photoshop, it works well for basic eye alignment correction and beginner-friendly portrait retouching.

When it comes to fixing lazy eyes in photos, Fotor can be a valuable tool. Its user-friendly interface and intuitive tools make it easy to manipulate and adjust the eye area. Features like the Blemish Fix tool, Clone tool, and adjustment on eye shadow, eyeliner, eye pop etc. can be used to address various eye imperfections and create a more visually appealing result.

Step 1. Navigate to Fotor editing page and upload your photo which has lazy eye.

Step 2. Click on the "Beauty" on the side toolbar.

Step 3. Apply the Blemish Fix feature for removing blemishes, but it can also be helpful for making subtle adjustments to the eyes.

Step 4. Use the "Clone" tool to clone areas of the image to correct imperfections, such as misaligned eyes.

Step 5. Carefully adjust the eye area for better matched eye shadow, eyeliner, eye pop and tint etc. until you're satisfied.

Step 6. Tap the "Download" button to save the lazy eye fixed photo after you've done.

While Fotor may not have the same level of precision as dedicated photo editing software, it can be a great starting point, especially for those who are new to photo editing or simply need a quick and easy solution. For more complex adjustments or advanced features, you might consider transitioning to more specialized software.

Part 5. Tips for Natural Eye Alignment in Photos

Lazy eyes can be a common challenge in photography, but with the right approach, they can be minimized. By understanding how to capture images in a way that reduces the visibility of lazy eyes, you'll not only save time in post-processing but also achieve more pleasing results. Let's explore some tips for both in-camera and post-production techniques.

1. Using a Wide Aperture:

A wider aperture (lower f-number) creates a shallower depth of field, meaning the background is significantly blurred. This can help to draw attention away from any imperfections, including lazy eyes. Experiment with different f-numbers to find the best balance between blurring the background and maintaining image sharpness. A typical range for portrait photography is f/1.8 to f/3.5.

2. Focusing on the Unaffected Eye:

Focus on the stronger eye with manual focus or spot metering for a sharper, balanced look. Remove glasses if possible to improve accuracy. A slight head tilt or asking the subject to look slightly off-camera can also reduce misalignment and create a more flattering image.

3. Using a Shallow Depth of Field:

A shallow depth of field isolates the subject, making them stand out from the background. This can help to mask imperfections like lazy eyes. Adjust your aperture and distance from the subject to achieve the desired depth of field. Remember that a closer distance and a wider aperture will result in a shallower depth of field.

4. Encouraging Relaxed Expressions: 

Sometimes lazy eyes look more pronounced when the subject feels tense. Encourage natural smiles and relaxed eye expressions to make the portrait look more balanced.

5. Considering Black and White:

Converting an image to black and white can reduce the visibility of color variations and imperfections. This can be particularly effective for masking lazy eyes. Experiment with different black and white conversion techniques and toning to find the best look for your image.

6. Using Photo Editing Software:

Photo editing software can provide precise control over adjustments, allowing you to refine the appearance of the eyes. Explore tools like the Liquify tool in Photoshop to make adjustments to the eyes' shape, size, and position. Be cautious not to overdo it, as excessive adjustments can look unnatural.

7. Using AI Photo Enhancer:

AI image enhancement software like Aiarty Image Enhancer offers a promising solution for individuals seeking to correct minor instances of strabismus in their photos. By automatically identifying and rectifying eye-related imperfections, these tools can significantly improve the overall appearance of images. However, for more complex cases of strabismus, professional photo editing software offers a wider range of tools and greater control over the editing process.

Try Aiarty Image Enhancer free and fix lazy eyes instantly.

Part 6. Common Mistakes When Fixing Lazy Eyes in Photos

While editing tools are powerful, it’s easy to make mistakes when trying to correct strabismus in photos. Here are some common errors and how to avoid them:

• Overusing Liquify or Warp Tools: Excessive pushing or dragging can distort the face shape, making the edit look unnatural. Always zoom out and check proportions.
• Ignoring Eye Reflection and Light: When moving or cloning eyes, mismatched light reflections can give away the edit. Make sure catchlights and reflections are consistent.
• Over-sharpening the Eyes: Too much sharpening or contrast adjustment may make the eyes look artificial. Subtlety creates more realistic results.
• Forgetting Symmetry with Other Features: Fixing only the eyes but not aligning with brows, nose, or glasses frames may still make the edit look “off.” Always check the whole face.

Pro Tip: Less is more. Aim for natural eye alignment correction rather than perfect symmetry, which can appear uncanny.

Conclusion: Best Way to Fix Lazy Eyes in Pictures

Fixing lazy eyes in photos can dramatically improve their visual appeal. By employing the strategies and tools outlined in this article, you can effectively address this common photographic challenge. Not only does correcting lazy eyes enhance the overall aesthetic of your images, but it also contributes to a more balanced and harmonious composition. By understanding and implementing these techniques, you'll be able to create photos that are more engaging, professional, and visually satisfying.

If your photo precisely has lazy eye, just fix it following this article. Can't wait to hear your success stories!