Posterizing
Posterizing is a digital image processing technique that reduces the number of distinct colors in an image. This results in a flattened, simplified appearance, often resembling a poster print where smooth gradations of color are replaced by larger areas of solid color. The process involves quantizing the color values of each pixel in an image. Instead of a continuous range of colors, posterizing assigns each pixel to one of a limited set of pre-defined colors. This reduction in color depth can create a stylized and graphic look.
The effect is achieved by reducing the number of bits used to represent each color channel (red,
Posterizing is often used for artistic effect, to create a retro or graphic novel aesthetic. It can