To change the hue and saturation of one layer in Photoshop, you can use either an adjustment layer or directly adjust the layer. Here's how:
Method 1: Using an Adjustment Layer
This is the recommended method as it's non-destructive, meaning it doesn't permanently alter the original layer.
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Select Layer: Click on the layer you want to modify in the Layers panel.
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Add Adjustment Layer:
- Go to Layer in the top menu.
- Select New Adjustment Layer.
- Choose Hue/Saturation.
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Adjust Settings: A new Hue/Saturation adjustment layer will appear above your selected layer. A properties panel will also open. In this panel:
- Hue: Drag the slider to change the colors of the layer.
- Saturation: Drag the slider to increase or decrease the color intensity.
- Lightness: Drag the slider to make the layer lighter or darker.
- Colorize: Check this box to apply a single hue to the layer; use the Hue and Saturation sliders to adjust the color and intensity.
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Layer Mask: The adjustment layer is applied to all layers below it by default. To limit it to just one layer, click on the layer mask that appears next to the adjustment layer. Using the brush tool and black color paint on the mask to reveal the original colors, use white to reveal the changes from the adjustment layer.
Method 2: Directly Adjusting the Layer
This is a destructive way, meaning any adjustments are permanent for that layer. It is not usually recommended.
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Select Layer: Click on the layer you want to modify in the Layers panel.
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Adjust Color:
- Go to Enhance in the top menu.
- Select Adjust Color.
- Choose Adjust Hue/Saturation.
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Adjust Settings: A Hue/Saturation dialog will open.
- Adjust the Hue, Saturation, and Lightness sliders as desired.
- Use the Colorize checkbox if you wish to colorize the layer.
- Click OK to apply the changes.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Adjustment Layer | Direct Adjustment |
|---|---|---|
| Destructive? | No | Yes |
| Flexibility? | Can adjust later, easily enabled/disabled with mask | Changes are permanent |
| Best Use Case? | Non-destructive workflow | Quick, one-off changes |
| Reference | Layer New Adjustment Layer Hue/Saturation | Select Enhance Adjust Color Adjust Hue/Saturation |
Examples
- To give a photo a more vibrant look, increase the saturation of an adjustment layer.
- To change a red car to blue, select the car, and lower the saturation of the reds, then change the hue of the reds to blues.
By using adjustment layers, you keep your edits non-destructive and are able to make changes later if necessary, which is usually the preferred workflow.
