How can I do this coloring effect?

[ImAWhiteCat]

Hi. I tried posting this on Reddit but got no response. Making maps is one of my hobbies and I found this way of coloring relief that's been used in Swiss topographic maps:

However, it only describes the manual process by using layers of ink, and I wanted to apply it digitally in Photoshop with a map of mine. I've tried changing the color balance of the layer to cyan, magenta, or the necessary color, but I don't think that's the right way. What do you think is the best way to apply this? If you need more info tell me. Thanks in advance for any help!

 

[IamSam]

Hello and welcome.

What do you think is the best way to apply this? If you need more info tell me. Thanks in advance for any help!

Can you provide a sample image that you would like to apply this effect to?

 

[ImAWhiteCat]

Hello and welcome.


Can you provide a sample image that you would like to apply this effect to?

Hi! Yes, I have one, sorry for not providing it. The method requires a grayscale shaded relief image like this one. Any workflow or guide would be fine!

 

[IamSam]

OK, see if I'm understanding you.

Original


Here I used "Color Range" to make a selection of a particular shade of grey shading on the original. I used the the selection to copy that particular shade to a new layer (selection layer). Then I added a "Solid Color Fill" layer clipped to the selection layer (set to color blending mode) to add the color blue.


Repeat to add the color Yellow to a new and different shade selection.


Repeat to add the color Red to a new and different shade selection.


Here they are combined.




Not sure if this is what your wanting.

 

[ImAWhiteCat]

Ah, that's the correct approach, thank you very much! I've tried now and it works correctly, I'll make some specific corrections but this is the right thing. Thanks again!