Layer Adjustment masking

Here is a subject that does not get talked about enough.  Layer Adjustment Masks.

They work just like Layer Masks but cover a wider spectrum of adjustments.

Here is the tool bar drop down for using LAM. To find, click black and white circle in Layers Pallet.

 the main ones I use are curves, levels, Hue and Sat., and maybe sometimes color balance.  As you play and learn these functions you will soon realize the benefits

What it does

First of all it allows changing the output without changing the file until you are positive this is what you want to do, as the feature is done in a Mask, not to the file.

To refresh on Masking.

When you create a function mask remember that Black takes off the mask, and White adds to the mask.

So if I make a mask change, then fill the mask with black, I have taken the change away.  

Now, if I use a brush at 50% opacity, with White on top, I can put back the "change" exactly where I want it.

I will do one using a Curves LAM to create a burning and also a dodging tool that will not change color.

By having these two LAMs I can paint in shadows and add highlights to an image.

Here is the original image straight from the camera.

To create these two masks:

In the layers pallet, click the black and white circle to get the menu above and select Curves.

In the Curves control box, click the center and drag down.  Don't worry about how it looks.

Below are the two masking layer that I created.  You can have as many masking layers as you want

   Here is the Dark.

Now we will remove the entire Dark Mask by going to EDIT > FILL.

Fill mask with Black which, removes the mask.

Change the color to white by hitting the X key.

Select a Brush of a large, SOFT Edge, and paint in the edges to darken.

You can also enlarge image, and with a small brush, build contrast in the shadow areas of the image.

But the best part is, as a mask, you can take it away if it is too much.

By changing back to Black I can take off the mask at the rate of the opacity.

Look at the white areas lighten up in the image below.  The color was changed to Black and the mask eliminated in just those control areas.

Now, create a Highlight mask by doing the same thing, only raising the center of the Curves control.

With black on top, EDIT > Fill the mask with black to eliminate.  Switch to White on top, use brush at 30
% to start, and add highlights or lighten areas more than in original.

Using both darkening, and lighter masks, you can burn and dodge the image to your liking and your style.

Also, since the adjustment is on a layer, if you over do, you can change the opacity of the layer to suite.

You have total control of the image this way.

The next issue will talk about using LAM and color balance to change color in a specific area.

As always, if you have questions...sing out and I will be sure and answer asap.

Have a great day,

B

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