How to Correct Exposure Issues Using Photoshop
Since not all images are taken by professional photographers, some issues may surface when trying to use an image for a print project or Internet page. The most common issue that arises is with the exposure of the image. If the image is too dark or too light, it can lower the image quality and affect how it will be presented online or in a printed document. This article will offer some suggestions on how to correct issues with exposure using Photoshop.
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Instructions
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Use the Adjustment Layer feature to correct the image. Begin by opening the image that you want to correct. Click on the "Layers" option located on the main toolbar, then select "New Adjustment Layer" from the drop-down menu and then "Levels" from the submenu and click "OK." This will open the "Levels" toolbox, from which you can adjust the exposure.
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Define the darkest and lightest points in your image. Start by clicking on the "Set Black Point" icon, in the lower right of the toolbox. Use this dropper to click on the darkest point in your image.
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Continue by clicking on the '"Set Gray Point" icon, which is next to the "Set Black Point" icon. Use the dropper to click on a point in the image that is close to gray.
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Next, click on the "Set White Point" icon, located next to the "Set Gray Point" icon. Use this dropper to click on the whitest point in the image.
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Click on the "Preview" check box in the lower right section of the toolbox. Doing so will temporarily apply your changes to the image. If you're not happy with the results, use the "Set Point" icons to redefine the black, gray and white points until you are satisfied with the results.
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Once you have corrected the image to your satisfaction, click on "OK" to save your changes and close the toolbox.
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Tips & Warnings
Compare your corrections with the original image by turning off/on the "Layer Visibility" feature on each layer.
Always work with a copy of your original image in case you make a mistake.
Make adjustments in small increments to avoid over-correction.
The "Layer Adjustment" layer must be directly above the image to which it should be applied.
