Adding a Levels adjustment layer in Photoshop is a straightforward process that allows for non-destructive tonal adjustments to your image. Here's how you do it:
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Open the Layers Panel: If it's not already visible, go to the menu bar and select Window > Layers. This will open the Layers panel.
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Create a New Adjustment Layer: At the bottom of the Layers panel, look for the "Create new fill or adjustment layer" icon. This icon looks like a half-filled circle.
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Choose "Levels": Click the "Create new fill or adjustment layer" icon. A list of adjustment layer options will appear. Select "Levels" from this list.
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Adjustments Panel Opens: Selecting "Levels" will automatically add a new Levels adjustment layer to your Layers panel and simultaneously open the Adjustments panel. The Adjustments panel will display a histogram representing the tonal range of your image, along with input and output level sliders.
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Make Your Adjustments: In the Adjustments panel, use the sliders to adjust the black point, white point, and midtones of your image. These adjustments are non-destructive, meaning they don't permanently alter the original image data. You can modify or delete the adjustment layer at any time.
By using a Levels adjustment layer, you gain flexibility and control over your image's tonal range without directly altering the original pixels, making it a valuable tool for image editing in Photoshop.
