Tip - Lab mode

I know there's a school of thought surrounding the benefits of editing in Lab mode. I don't bother with it, RGB mode serves my needs quite well.

However, I used to convert to Lab mode every now and then, if I wanted to majorly adjust luminance without affecting colour. I'd make my adjustment using Levels or Curves, then convert back to RGB.

However, converting to and fro isn't convenient, nor is it good for the file. If you're an occasional Lab converter like I was, try this instead.

I simply duplicate the layer I'm working on, then change the layer mode to "Luminance". Then my Levels or Curves adjustments behave like Lab mode! Once I've finished, I simply merge the layers again.

I'm sure this is obvious to most of you, but if it helps somebody ...

Hello my name is Steve and I am a serial LAB converter
...for purposes of sharpening the lightness channel, adjusting luminance, and other fun things such as noise reduction.

Your tip may be obvious to others but it's news to me...although makes total sense.

I'll be sure to give it a whirl.

Cheers!

Hi Steve, similar tip for noise reduction. Dupe the layer, change it to Color mode. Then blur it. Magic!

http://www.luminous-landscape.com/essays/c​urves.shtml

tzalman wrote in post #3758892
http://www.luminous-landscape.com/essays/c​urves.shtml

Good stuff. thanks.