How to Use the Filter Gallery in Photoshop

Photoshop ships with an amazing array of filters to help you liven up your digital photos. Figuring out which filter to use can be a little overwhelming; luckily, the filter gallery preview function lets your try on a few filters before you commit to a decision. Here's a look at how the filter gallery works.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Adobe Photoshop

1. With your digital photo already open, click on Filter/Filter Gallery.

2. Adjust the preview to the correct magnification. You can zoom in or out by using the + and - buttons at the lower left corner of the screen.

3. Look at the filter folder list near the right side of your screen. Here the filters are grouped into a few general categories. Select a folder from this list by clicking on the title.

4. Once the folder is selected, choose a specific filter to preview on your image.

5. Adjust the filter with sliding controls on the right side of the screen. Most filters have some modifications to experiment with.

6. Once you have selected a filter you like, hit OK and move on with your project.

Tips & Warnings

• If a color appears across much of your image, you might be using a filter (such as from the brush strokes folder) that applies your foreground color. If you need to change the color, close the filter gallery first.
• Always duplicate your file before modifying a digital image.