To edit the sky mask in Lightroom, use the masking tools after selecting the sky. Here's how:
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Open Your Photo and Select Masking: Begin by opening the image you want to edit in Lightroom. Then, locate and select the "Masking" panel.
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Select "Sky": Within the Masking panel, choose the "Select Sky" option. Lightroom's AI will automatically analyze your photo and create an initial mask of the sky.
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Refine the Sky Mask: Lightroom's initial selection is often a good starting point, but you'll likely need to refine it. You can refine your selection using these techniques:
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Add to the Mask: If Lightroom missed parts of the sky you want to include, click "Add". You can then use a brush, gradient, or other selection tools to paint or select the areas you wish to add to the mask.
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Subtract from the Mask: Conversely, if Lightroom included areas that aren't sky, click "Subtract". Use the same selection tools (brush, gradient, etc.) to remove those areas from the mask. The "Subtract" option lets you remove unwanted parts of the initial sky mask.
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Use Editing Sliders to Make Local Adjustments: Once you're satisfied with the sky mask's accuracy, use the editing sliders on the right side of the Lightroom interface. These adjustments will only affect the masked area (the sky). Common adjustments for skies include:
- Exposure: Brighten or darken the sky.
- Contrast: Increase or decrease contrast in the sky.
- Highlights/Shadows: Adjust the bright and dark areas within the sky.
- Temperature: Warm up or cool down the sky's color.
- Tint: Adjust the sky's green or magenta tones.
- Dehaze: Reduce or add atmospheric haze.
- Saturation/Vibrance: Adjust the intensity of the sky's colors.
By carefully refining the mask and using the adjustment sliders, you can dramatically improve the look of the sky in your photos without affecting the rest of the image.
