Photoshop Elements 8 for Windows: The Missing Manual

Gradient Maps

Gradient maps let you use gradients in nonlinear ways. So instead of a rainbow that shades from one direction to another, in a gradient map, the gradient colors are substituted for the existing colors in your image. You can use gradient maps for funky special effects or for serious photo corrections.

When you create a gradient map, Elements plots out the brightness values in your image and then applies those values to a gradient (light to dark). Then Elements replaces the existing colors with the gradient you choose, using the lightness values as a guide for which color goes where.

That sounds complicated, but if you try it, you'll quickly see what's going on. Take a look at Figure 13-24, for instance. Applying a gradient map dramatically livens up this dull photo, but that's not all gradient maps are good for. Gradients and gradient maps can also be valuable tools for straight retouching. See the box on Gradient Maps to learn how to use gradients to fix the color in your photo.

Figure 13-24. Left: A very ordinary shot of a lighthouse. Right: The image becomes something altogether different when you apply a gradient map adjustment.

You can apply a gradient map directly to your image by going to Filter → Adjustments → Gradient Map. (You can also apply a gradient map with the Smart Brush [Correcting Part of an Image]; in the Options bar's Smart Paint setting, choose Special ...