Adobe Photoshop

The Adjustments, Listed

The majority of color and tonal adjustments can be applied nondestructively as adjustment layers or Smart Filters (applied to Smart Objects). The remaining few can be applied only directly to pixels, and thus care should be taken if you might ever wish to reverse their effect later. In the explanations below, where possible, I have used the icons found in the Adjustments panel for easier identification. Also, I’ve divided adjustments into two main categories: productions and creative, since some lend themselves to practical use more than others. Of course, many can be used in either way.

To see the full list of Photoshop adjustments and to apply them directly or as Smart Filters, go to Image > Adjustments. The most important ...