How do I Selectively Change One Color in Photoshop?

To selectively change one color in Photoshop, you can use several methods, but the most common and precise involve using adjustment layers and selections based on color. Here’s a breakdown of a common method that uses a Hue/Saturation adjustment layer:

Using a Hue/Saturation Adjustment Layer

This method is effective because it allows non-destructive editing, meaning you can always go back and adjust your changes.

Steps:

1. Open Your Image: Start by opening the image in Photoshop that contains the color you wish to change.

2. Create a Hue/Saturation Adjustment Layer:

   • Go to the bottom of your Layers panel.
   • Click the half-filled circle icon (which creates new fill or adjustment layers).
   • Select Hue/Saturation...

3. Sample Your Target Color:

   • In the Properties panel of the newly created Hue/Saturation adjustment layer, you will see a little hand icon with an eyedropper. This is the eyedropper tool used to select colors.
   • Use the eyedropper to sample your target color by clicking on the colors you want to modify.
   • Click on different shades of the color to increase the range of your selection. This helps the adjustment layer target a broader range of that specific color.

4. Adjust Color:

• After sampling, adjust the Hue, Saturation, and Lightness sliders to change the color to your liking.
• Observe the changes in your image and experiment with different values to achieve the desired result.

5. Fine-tuning the Selection:

   • You may notice that other colors similar to the target color are also affected, or that not all parts of the target color are being adjusted.
     • To refine the selection further, use the two color bars beneath the eyedropper to narrow down or broaden the color range.
     • The color bars show the original range of colors being targeted.
     • Use the small sliders with the color bar to drag and modify color selection, making the affected color range more specific to the color you are trying to change.

6. Masking:

   • If the selected color range is affecting areas it shouldn't, create a mask on the Hue/Saturation adjustment layer.
   • Click the white rectangle to the right of the adjustment layer name to select the mask.
   • Use the paintbrush tool and paint with black to remove the effect in unwanted areas. Use white to add it back.

Tips and Insights:

• Non-Destructive Editing: Adjustment layers always preserve your original image. This is great because you can always go back and make additional adjustments.
• Color Range Tool: For more complex selections, consider using Select > Color Range before creating your Hue/Saturation Layer. This allows you to select a range of colors.
• Experiment: It may take some experimenting with the settings to get just the right change. Don't be afraid to play around with the sliders.

By utilizing the eyedropper tool within a Hue/Saturation adjustment layer and refining the color range, you can selectively change one color in Photoshop effectively and non-destructively.