Infallible Photography in Photoshop: The Contrast Checker Method

Updated at: 02/07/2025

Tired of inconsistent image contrast? This tutorial reveals the "Contrast Checker Method," a foolproof Photoshop technique for achieving perfectly balanced images every time. Forget guesswork and tedious adjustments. Learn to leverage Photoshop's tools for precise contrast control, resulting in vibrant, impactful photos that truly pop. Discover the secret to consistent, professional-looking results, regardless of your skill level. Let's get started!

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preparation

    • Open the 'DPS article extras Blake rutus' zip file and locate the image and the 'Contrast Checker' action.
    • Open the Actions panel (Window > Actions or Alt+F9).
    • Load the 'Contrast Checker' ATN action into the Actions panel by double-clicking it.
    Load the 'Contrast Checker' ATN action into the Actions panel by double-clicking it. Load the 'Contrast Checker' ATN action into the Actions panel by double-clicking it. Load the 'Contrast Checker' ATN action into the Actions panel by double-clicking it.
    Preparation

  2. Initial Contrast Adjustment with Gradient Map

    • Play the 'Contrast Checker' action. This creates a gradient map (black and white version) of your photograph.
    Play the 'Contrast Checker' action. This creates a gradient map (black and white version) of your photograph.
    Initial Contrast Adjustment with Gradient Map

  3. Black and White Point Adjustment

    • Adjust the black point in the Curves adjustment layer by Alt/Option-clicking the black triangle and moving the point slightly to the right to introduce blacks into your image.
    • Adjust the white point in the Curves adjustment layer by Alt/Option-clicking the white triangle and moving the point slightly to the left to recover details in highlights.
    Adjust the white point in the Curves adjustment layer by Alt/Option-clicking the white triangle and moving the point slightly to the left to recover details in highlights. Adjust the white point in the Curves adjustment layer by Alt/Option-clicking the white triangle and moving the point slightly to the left to recover details in highlights.
    Black and White Point Adjustment

  4. Targeted Adjustments

    • Use the Targeted Adjustment Tool in the Curves layer to fine-tune specific areas of your image by clicking on the area you want to adjust and dragging the curve up (to lighten) or down (to darken).
    Use the Targeted Adjustment Tool in the Curves layer to fine-tune specific areas of your image by clicking on the area you want to adjust and dragging the curve up (to lighten) or down (to darken).
    Targeted Adjustments

  5. Reveal Color Image

    • Remove the gradient map layer to reveal the enhanced color photograph.
    Remove the gradient map layer to reveal the enhanced color photograph.
    Reveal Color Image

  6. Non-Destructive Dodge and Burn

    • Play the Dodge and Burn adjustment layer within the Contrast Checker action. This creates a non-destructive layer for dodging and burning.
    • Use the Dodge tool (or Alt/Option+click for the Burn tool) to selectively lighten or darken areas of your image, enhancing details and contrast. Adjust brush size with [ and ] keys.
    Use the Dodge tool (or Alt/Option+click for the Burn tool) to selectively lighten or darken areas of your image, enhancing details and contrast. Adjust brush size with [ and ] keys. Use the Dodge tool (or Alt/Option+click for the Burn tool) to selectively lighten or darken areas of your image, enhancing details and contrast. Adjust brush size with [ and ] keys.
    Non-Destructive Dodge and Burn
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Tips

  • A trained eye helps to identify areas needing adjustment. The gradient map provides a baseline for assessment.
  • Use the luminosity blending mode for the Curves adjustment layer if you want to affect only tones and not colors.
  • Non-destructive dodging and burning (using adjustment layers) is key to maintaining flexibility and avoiding permanent changes.
  • Experiment with different exposure settings (10-15) for the Dodge and Burn tool to achieve desired effects.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect Curve Adjustments

Reason: Over-adjusting the curves to boost contrast can lead to clipped highlights (loss of detail in bright areas) or crushed shadows (loss of detail in dark areas).
Solution: Subtly adjust the curves, using the eyedropper tools to target specific tones and checking the histogram for clipping.

2. Ignoring Local Contrast

Reason: Focusing solely on global contrast adjustments neglects the importance of enhancing contrast within specific areas of the image, leading to a flat or dull look.
Solution: Use tools like dodge and burn, or local adjustment layers (e.g., radial filters, brushes) to refine contrast in specific regions.

3. Neglecting Image Preparation

Reason: Applying contrast adjustments to a poorly exposed or poorly sharpened image will not yield optimal results; the foundation needs to be strong.
Solution: Ensure proper exposure and sharpness before applying any contrast enhancement techniques.

FAQs

Does this method work on all types of photos (portraits, landscapes, etc.)?
Yes! The Contrast Checker Method is versatile and applicable to various photographic genres. While the specific adjustments might vary slightly depending on the image content (e.g., a high-key portrait will require different adjustments than a dark landscape), the core principles remain the same. The method focuses on objective assessment rather than subjective adjustments, ensuring consistent results across all image types.