here you go:
http://www.photokaboom.com/photography/ ... p_make.htm
As a matter of fact, using gradient maps instead of curves is more than a simulation. It does exactly the same math transformation. The main difference is in the user interface. Instead of tweaking a curve, you change the look of the gradient. The other important thing to keep in mind is that your gradient map adjustment layer should be in luminosity mode: you do not change the colors.
To summarize: you choose the black to white gradient in the gradient swatch and set your adjustment layer in luminosity mode. (It's the 3rd from left)
There are many advantages to use this technique in Elements. If you are not dealing with colours, you get the same flexibility and precision than with curves. As a matter of fact, it becomes much more intuitive than curves when you are used to it. The big advantage of adjustment layers is obvious: you can use the adjustment layer mask.
Do you use the threshold adjustment layers? Most of the time, you'll find it lacks flexibility. With a gradient map, you can be much more precise AND soften the transition from black to white, which is much more precise than blurring the threshold layer.
Suggestions for your next home work:
- define the equivalent gradient to a default threshold, but with softening (or feathering around the limit)
- define a black and white gradient to show or mask middle greys (let's say from 47 to 53% luminosity).
http://www.photokaboom.com/photography/ ... p_make.htm
As a matter of fact, using gradient maps instead of curves is more than a simulation. It does exactly the same math transformation. The main difference is in the user interface. Instead of tweaking a curve, you change the look of the gradient. The other important thing to keep in mind is that your gradient map adjustment layer should be in luminosity mode: you do not change the colors.
To summarize: you choose the black to white gradient in the gradient swatch and set your adjustment layer in luminosity mode. (It's the 3rd from left)
There are many advantages to use this technique in Elements. If you are not dealing with colours, you get the same flexibility and precision than with curves. As a matter of fact, it becomes much more intuitive than curves when you are used to it. The big advantage of adjustment layers is obvious: you can use the adjustment layer mask.
Do you use the threshold adjustment layers? Most of the time, you'll find it lacks flexibility. With a gradient map, you can be much more precise AND soften the transition from black to white, which is much more precise than blurring the threshold layer.
Suggestions for your next home work:
- define the equivalent gradient to a default threshold, but with softening (or feathering around the limit)
- define a black and white gradient to show or mask middle greys (let's say from 47 to 53% luminosity).