Correcting an underexposed photo

[wbiss]

Maybe this has already been posted and, if so, I apologize, but I found this to be a really "fast and dirty" method to correct a badly underexposed photo.

1. Create a new layer above the photo
2. Fill with 50% grey
3. Set blend mode to "color dodge"

Amazing results! [stuned]

[sfm]

cool will give that one a go..... got plenty of "those" pics he he he
sfm

[tranquil222]

There are many other ways to correct underexposed pics(after all, thats what Photoshop was originally programmed for). I would start by learning levels, and then move on to a more advanced and powerful function, curves. The method described above is a nice quick fix , but it bumps up everything, highlights, midtones, and shadows. (the latter is not usually acceptable). Have fun 8}

[theKeeper]

Just wanna add to Wendy's method...

If/when resources becomes an issue, you can achieve the same results without adding file size to your document.

Adding new normal layers will increase the doc's file size. Instead, just add a Levels Adjustment layer, and set it to Linear Dodge; same as Wendy's.

Adjustment layers don't add file size to a document. ;) :B

[namvet]

..... sssooo, what is a quick fix when half the image (person) is under exposed??

[tranquil222]

A mask, my friend. A mask.

[namvet]

thanks tranquil222 ... a mask .... and??

Ian, you'll need to make a copy of the original, add a layer mask to this copy and the adjustment layers you need to make the necessary corrections. Mask out those areas that don't need these adjustments.

[theKeeper]

ooooh a layer mask.

I though tranq meant "a mask... to cover the one half of your face that's seeing the underexposed side of the image.

[sfm]

same same Mark ha ha ha
Phantom of the opera sprung to mind ;\
sfm