Creating filters and special effects in Photoshop.

Learn how to alter shades and colors. Create the perfect filter to increase the brightness, improve the contrast, and lots more for your creative project.

The dozens of filters available in Photoshop can be used to clean up, retouch, or express your creativity by applying special effects to your photos. You can adjust color, change lighting, or enhance details with just a few clicks for quick touch-ups. For more advanced special effects, you can blend and fade filters.

How to apply filters from the gallery.

Filters that are included with Photoshop can be accessed from the filter gallery. Additional filters from third-party providers can be added to the program, too. Actually, any number of filters can be used with your image and will be applied in the order they are selected. Dramatic effects can be achieved by altering the order you apply them in.

To apply filters from the gallery, simply select the image or image layer, choose a filter from the gallery, and apply it to the selection.

Tips for creating special effects in Photoshop.

For more creative solutions, use these tips to start experimenting with advanced techniques:

• Treat edges: Edges of subjects or objects often need to be treated to create a specific effect. You can apply a filter to create a distinct edge, or feather the edge before applying the filter for a softer look.
• Filter each layer: You can build special effects by applying different filters to the various layers of an image.
• Create backgrounds: Filters applied to solid-color or grayscale shapes can generate custom backgrounds and textures.
• Combine effects: The most advanced transformations can be achieved by combining multiple effects on layers or duplicate images. These can then be blended to create an art project with no limits.

Learn more about photo editing tips and tricks.

Explore how to use Adobe Photoshop filters to polish your photos and create the effect you’re looking for.