How do you invert adjustment in Photoshop?

To invert an adjustment in Photoshop, you can use the Invert adjustment layer or the Invert command. Both achieve the same result: reversing the colors (making white black, black white, and so on) of the affected layers. Here's how to do both:

Method 1: Using the Invert Adjustment Layer

1. Open your image: Begin by opening the image you wish to modify in Photoshop.
2. Add an Invert Adjustment Layer:
   • Go to Layer > New Adjustment Layer > Invert. Alternatively, click the adjustment layer icon at the bottom of the Layers panel (it looks like a half-black, half-white circle) and select "Invert."
3. Optional Masking: This Invert adjustment layer affects all layers beneath it. To limit the inversion to specific areas, you can use a layer mask on the Invert adjustment layer. Paint with black on the mask to hide the effect and with white to show it.

Method 2: Using the Invert Command

1. Open your image: Open the image you want to transform in Photoshop.
2. Select the Layer: Choose the specific layer you want to invert. If you want to invert the entire image, make sure the topmost layer is selected.
3. Apply the Invert Command: Go to Image > Adjustments > Invert. You can also use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+I (Windows) or Cmd+I (Mac).
   • This method directly alters the selected layer’s pixels. It's a destructive edit, meaning the original data is changed unless you're working on a duplicate layer.

Key Differences

• Invert Adjustment Layer (Non-Destructive): This creates a separate layer that applies the inversion effect. You can easily toggle the effect on and off, adjust the opacity, or use a layer mask to control where the inversion occurs. This is the preferred method for most workflows.
• Invert Command (Destructive): This directly alters the pixels of the selected layer. It's generally best to use this method on a copy of your layer to preserve the original image data.

Example Use Cases:

• Creating a Negative Image: Inverting colors is the basic principle behind creating a negative image from a positive one.
• Special Effects: Inverting can be used to create unusual and striking visual effects.
• Masking: You can invert a mask to change which areas are affected by a filter or adjustment.

By using either the Invert adjustment layer or the Invert command, you can quickly and easily reverse the colors in your Photoshop document, opening up a wide range of creative possibilities. The adjustment layer method provides more flexibility and is generally recommended for non-destructive editing.