It’s actually fairly easy. I created a new layer in Photoshop and added a rectangle shape approximately the same shape as my photo. I then positioned my photo layer above the new rectangle layer (in the layers window) and created a clipping mask. Then using a soft edge eraser slowly erased the edges of the highlighted rectangle until I was happy with the shape. (Erasing parts of the rectangle layer only allows you to keep your photo intact so that you can move it around within the “clipping mask” if you want to.) I then merged the two layers into one. Changed the opacity to 45% and the blending mode to “Hard Light”.

Or you can use a pre-made photo mask and then play around with the layer opacity and blending mode. Less steps, but you are restricted to the photo mask shape and design.

Hope this all makes sense! Have fun playing!! :o)