To apply an adjustment to a single layer in Photoshop, you'll use a clipping mask. This ensures that the adjustment only affects the layer directly below it.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
Using Adjustment Layers with Clipping Masks
The key to adjusting a single layer is using adjustment layers with a clipping mask. This method allows you to apply non-destructive changes. This means you can easily adjust or remove them without altering your original layer.
Steps to Apply Adjustment to a Single Layer:
- Select the Layer: First, select the layer you want to adjust in the Layers panel.
- Create a New Adjustment Layer: Go to the Layer menu, then choose New Adjustment Layer, and then select the desired type of adjustment (e.g., Brightness/Contrast, Hue/Saturation, Curves).
- Set the Clipping Mask: In the New Layer dialog box, check the box labeled "Use Previous Layer to Create Clipping Mask." Then click OK.
- By doing this, the adjustment layer is linked to only the layer immediately beneath it. This is what the reference describes as "to affect only one layer".
- Make Adjustments: Now, make your adjustments in the Properties panel for your adjustment layer. The changes will only affect the layer it's clipped to.
Example Scenarios:
- Color Correction on an Image: Imagine you have an image with different elements on separate layers. If you want to adjust the color of one specific object, select that layer, add an adjustment layer, set a clipping mask, and adjust the color. This will only affect the object layer.
- Brightness Adjustment: You can do the same thing for brightness. Select a layer, add a Brightness/Contrast adjustment layer, set a clipping mask and change brightness of just this layer.
Benefits of Using Adjustment Layers with Clipping Masks
- Non-Destructive Editing: As mentioned, the original layer remains unchanged. This gives you the flexibility to adjust the adjustment layer later or completely remove it without impacting the original image.
- Targeted Adjustments: You can make specific changes to parts of your image without affecting the entire composition.
- Easy Modifications: If your adjustments aren't quite right, simply edit the adjustment layer's properties panel, and those changes will apply only to the layer that’s clipped.
By using the Layer > New Adjustment Layer option and selecting "Use Previous Layer to Create Clipping Mask", you can easily apply adjustments to specific layers in Photoshop, as described in the provided reference.
