Adobe Photoshop grows more useful for photographers each time it’s updated. Unfortunately, the constant addition of new tools and features can make navigating through them a heavy undertaking.
While it will take extensive practice as a photographer to become familiar with all the ins and outs of Photoshop, here are four Photoshop tools–some old, some new–that all too many photographers don’t use nearly as much as they should.
#1: High Pass Filter sharpening
High Pass Filter sharpening is a relatively unknown filter used to sharpen contrast around detailed objects. Use the High Pass in conjunction Blend Mode, increasing the High Pass layer’s opacity, to create a more subtle effect.
#2: Perspective Warp
Perspective Warp is a very versatile tool that can completely turn a photograph on its head–literally. Especially useful for architectural or landscape photography, Perspective Warp transforms the parameters of a photo to give the viewer a dramatically different vantage point.
The uses are varied, but more on the complex side. Here is an excellent video tutorial explaining the concept.
#3: Luminance/Lightness
Luminance, which was recently renamed to Lightness in a recent update, is a great way to brighten up a photo without blaring out noise. More uniquely, it can also reduce noise in high ISO photos.
Use it the same way you would Hue or Saturation; access all three here:
#4: Layer Mask
Layer Mask is a useful trick both for general touchups and more creative effects. Essentially, layer mask allows you to work with two or more layers, making on transparent so as to see through to the layer underneath.
One fun way to use layer mask is by creating a Cinemagraph, in which you create a perpetually moving still photograph by making a short video clip one layer, and a still from the video the top layer. Layer Mask is used to make portions of the video show through the still photograph, creating an image that is partially still, partially moving.
Learn how to make a cinemagraph in our full tutorial here.
