Changing the color of something in Photoshop is a relatively simple process that involves selecting the object you want to change and then adjusting its hue, saturation, and lightness. This can be done using various tools within Photoshop, such as the Hue/Saturation adjustment layer or the Replace Color command. After completing this action, the object will have a new color that blends seamlessly with the rest of the image.
Introduction
Have you ever taken the perfect shot, only to wish later that the subject was a different color? Or maybe you’re trying to design something and the colors just aren’t working out. Whatever the reason, knowing how to change the color of something in Photoshop is a nifty skill to have up your sleeve. Whether you’re a professional photographer, a graphic designer, or just someone who likes to play around with images, being able to tweak colors can make a world of difference in your work.
In this digital age, images are everything. They are more than just pixels on a screen; they are a form of communication. The colors in an image can convey emotions, set a mood, or even influence purchasing decisions. This is why it’s important to get the colors just right. Photoshop, the world-renowned photo editing software, has made it possible to alter colors with just a few clicks. This tutorial is perfect for beginners and those looking to refresh their skills. Let’s dive in and learn how to change the color of something in Photoshop!
Step by Step Tutorial: Changing the Color of Something in Photoshop
Before we get started, make sure you have the image you want to edit open in Photoshop.
Step 1: Select the Object
Use the Quick Selection Tool to select the object you want to change.
Once you have the Quick Selection Tool activated, click and drag over the object to select it. Photoshop will automatically detect the edges of the object. If the selection isn’t perfect, you can add to it by holding down the Shift key and clicking on the unselected areas. Likewise, if you want to remove parts of the selection, press and hold the Alt key (Option on Mac) and click on the parts you want to remove.
Step 2: Add a Hue/Saturation Adjustment Layer
With the object still selected, click on the “Adjustments” panel and choose “Hue/Saturation.”
Adding a Hue/Saturation Adjustment Layer allows you to make non-destructive changes to the color of the selected object. This means you can adjust the color as much as you want without permanently altering the original image. You can find the Adjustments panel at the bottom of the Layers panel. If it’s not already visible, you can open it by going to Window > Adjustments.
Step 3: Adjust the Hue
In the Hue/Saturation properties panel, move the Hue slider left or right to change the color.
As you move the Hue slider, you’ll notice the color of the selected object changing. The farther you move the slider, the more drastic the color change will be. You can also adjust the Saturation slider to make the color more vivid or more subtle, and the Lightness slider to make it darker or lighter.
Step 4: Refine the Edges
If necessary, refine the edges of your selection for a more natural look.
Sometimes the initial selection isn’t perfect and you might have some rough edges. To refine the edges, go to Select > Select and Mask. This opens a new workspace where you can smooth, feather, and adjust the edges of your selection. Use the various tools and sliders to get a clean, realistic-looking edge.
Step 5: Save Your Work
Once you’re happy with the new color, save your image.
It’s always good practice to save your work frequently. You can save the image with the layers intact by choosing File > Save As and selecting the Photoshop format (PSD). If you want to save a copy that can be viewed on other devices, choose File > Save As and select the format you prefer, like JPEG or PNG.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Non-destructive Editing | By using adjustment layers to change colors, you can always go back and tweak the settings without any loss of quality to the original image. |
| Precision | Photoshop’s selection tools allow for precise selection, which means the color change can be applied to exactly the areas you want without affecting the rest of the image. |
| Versatility | Photoshop offers a range of tools and adjustments for changing colors, so you can get the effect you want whether it’s a subtle shift or a complete color overhaul. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Learning Curve | For beginners, Photoshop can be overwhelming, and it might take some time to learn how to use the various selection tools and adjustment layers effectively. |
| Time-Consuming | Depending on the complexity of the object and the precision required, changing colors can be a time-consuming process. |
| Software Cost | Photoshop is a paid software, which means it may not be accessible to everyone who wants to change the color of something in their images. |
Additional Information
When changing the color of something in Photoshop, there are a few more tricks you can use to get the perfect result. For example, if you’re struggling to make a precise selection, try using the Pen Tool. It’s a bit more advanced, but it allows for extremely precise paths that can be converted into selections.
Also, remember that colors can look different on different screens and devices. It’s a good idea to check your edited image on multiple devices to ensure the color looks right everywhere. If you’re working with print, consider calibrating your monitor and learning about color profiles to ensure the printed result matches what you see on the screen.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment. Photoshop is a powerful tool with lots of possibilities. Sometimes, the best way to learn is by trying different things and seeing what works best for you and your images.
Summary
- Select the object using the Quick Selection Tool.
- Add a Hue/Saturation Adjustment Layer.
- Adjust the Hue to change the color.
- Refine the edges for a natural look.
- Save your work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the Quick Selection Tool isn’t selecting the object properly?
You can try using the Select and Mask workspace to refine the selection or use other selection tools like the Lasso Tool or the Pen Tool for more precision.
Can I change the color of multiple objects at once?
Yes, you can select multiple objects by holding down the Shift key while using the Quick Selection Tool. You can then adjust their colors simultaneously with an adjustment layer.
Does changing the color in Photoshop look natural?
If done correctly, changing the color can look very natural. The key is to make sure the edges of your selection are clean and the new color’s lighting matches the rest of the image.
Can I revert to the original color after saving the file?
If you save the file as a PSD with the adjustment layers intact, you can revert to the original color by simply deleting or hiding the adjustment layer.
What if I want to change the color to something very specific?
You can enter specific color values in the Hue/Saturation properties panel, or use the Color Picker tool to select a color directly from your image or any other source.
Conclusion
Changing the color of something in Photoshop might seem like a daunting task at first, but with a bit of practice, it becomes second nature. Whether you’re adjusting hues for aesthetic reasons or correcting colors for accuracy, Photoshop’s powerful tools make the process straightforward and effective.
Just remember to work with adjustment layers for non-destructive editing, refine your selections for a natural look, and be open to a bit of trial and error. With these tips and a dash of creativity, you’ll be changing colors like a pro in no time. Happy editing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.