- Exploring the Apply Image Feature
- Blending Two Images
- Create Layer Mask Effects
- Photo Editing with Apply Image
Photo Editing with Apply Image
The Apply Image command also has a use in day-to-day photo editing tasks. By creating a layer mask using the image itself as the mask, you can adjust the strength of some fixes. For example, when lightening an image, try these steps:
- Create a duplicate of the image background layer and apply the Screen blend mode to the top layer.
- Add a layer mask to the top layer by using the Add Layer Mask icon at the foot of the Layers palette.
- Select the Layer Mask thumbnail and choose Image > Apply Image.
- Disable the Mask checkbox. From the Source image list, choose the target image.
- Set the blend mode to Normal and click OK. The image itself now appears as a
grayscale mask on the top layer, limiting the strength of the Screen blend mode
so it affects lighter areas more strongly than darker areas (see Figure 7).
Figure 7 Adding a grayscale version of the image as a mask on the topmost layer affects the strength of the Screen blend mode—giving a more natural result in the leftmost image, when compared to the version without the mask on the right.
With a little experimentation, you’ll find that the Apply Image command has a place in creating interesting photo effects as well as in routine photo-fixing tasks.