Photoshop, once mostly used for editing, creating graphic work, and developing visuals, now represents a robust tool many professionals and hobbyists use. But even the most experienced users still don’t know all the secret tricks that could make their workflow easier. Here are ten Photoshop tricks you probably don’t know, including a few of which work in Online Photoshop tools. Here are some tips that can make your photo editing faster, better, and more efficient.
Okay, so now that we’re ready to get into those useful tips for an improved Photoshop game, let’s go.
Smart Objects: Non-Destructive Editing
One of the really useful things inside of Photoshop is a feature called Smart Object. With Smart Objects you do not actually mess with your layers while editing the image. In fact, if you take one layer and turn it into a Smart Object, any changes you make will now be based off of the Smart Object, as opposed to your original file.
To convert a layer right-click on the layer and click “Convert to Smart Object”. That’s a great trick to use in case you ever are working with online Photoshop tools, too; some editions have similar features. The Smart Objects make it just easy enough for you to go back and modify your edits anytime without having to start over.
Use Layer Masks for Precision Edits
Layer Masks enable you to hide or reveal parts of a layer without permanently erasing any content. That gives you more control when editing specific areas of an image.
To create a Layer Mask, click the Mask icon at the bottom of your Layers panel. You can then paint on the mask with a black or white brush. White reveals the layer, while black hides it. With an online Photoshop tool, check if it has something similar because, if you are considering using it or are almost there, masking is a powerful refining tool for edits that will be applied.
Come out of honeymoon stage with Pen Tool for precise selection
The Pen Tool is a pro-class tool that allows you to make very precise paths and selections. Cut out complex objects from the background; examples include hair and intricate shapes, where you need specificity.
To use the Pen Tool, click on it from the toolbar, and then start clicking all around the object that you want to select. That method works in most versions of Photoshop, including Online Photoshop. Pen Tool is quite challenging and needs lots of practice. Once you master the Pen tool, your selection game will become pretty much better.
Adjustment Layers for Global Changes
Adjustment Layers allow for color correction, changes in brightness levels, and more, without the need to change that original layer at all. These layers are non-destructive and can easily be amended.
Add an Adjustment Layer To do this, go Layer> New Adjustment Layer and choose the adjustment you want, such as Levels or Curves. This is a trick that works both on the desktop and online versions of Photoshop, so it’s very versatile in use.
The nice thing about Adjustment Layers is you can pile them up and change or remove at will.
Instantly Remove Objects with Content-Aware Fill
Ever wanted to remove something from an image? It’s very easy with the Content-Aware Fill tool. Content-Aware Fill analyzes the pixels around the area you want to delete and fills in the space.
To begin, select the object using the Lasso Tool, then go to Edit>Content Aware Fill. This one is a lifesaver when it comes to removing unwanted elements really fast. Most Online Photoshop alternatives do wonders with this tool, though precision does vary.
Cinematic Look through Color Grading
Give a cinematic look to your images by shifting the overall tone and mood of it through color grading. This can be achieved by the use of Color Lookup Adjustment Layer.
To apply it, go to Layer > New Adjustment Layer > Color Lookup. For that, you can try several LUTs for your image to be the one that serves the best for it. Even some online Photoshop tools take the same principle in applying color grading.
This is a very fast way of making your images outstanding with just a few clicks.
Use Actions to Speed Up Repetitive Tasks
Photoshop features an Action where you may save time. If you need to repeat steps many times, Photoshop has a feature with Actions, which allows you to record such actions that may be performed later on with a click of one button.
To record an action, go to the Actions panel by using Window > Actions and click the Record button. Go through your operations as you typically would; when you are done you click the stop recording button. Now every time you want to repeat that exercise all you need to do is play the action.
Batch-processing capabilities can also be found in some of the online tools for Photoshop but likely are not as strong.
Sharpen Images with High Pass Filter
Desire to sharpen your images? Then use a High Pass Filter is perfect for that – no over-sharpening here.
Duplicate image layer, then go to Filter > Other > High Pass. The radius should be about 1-5 for a subtle effect. Change the layer’s blend mode to Overlay or Soft Light. This trick sometimes has its analogue in the online alternatives of Photoshop with their sharpening filters.
This gives you a bright sharp picture that does not appear to have been overprocessed.
Create Custom Brushes
You can make custom brushes in Photoshop. They can be pretty handy, adding extra textures, patterns, or special designs to your work. The brushes can also be made from images, patterns, or even hand-drawn designs.
To create a custom brush, go to your desired area, go to Edit > Define Brush Preset, and name your brush. This is a fun way to personalize your work, and some Online Photoshop tools even let you create basic custom brushes.
Custom Brushes will help you realize your whole new creativity in handling things around.
Work with Layer Styles for Instant Effects
Layer Styles are a simple and quick way to give your layers the effect of shadow, glow, or stroke. You can add more than one effect to any number of layers in just seconds.
To have access to Layer Styles, double-click on the layer in the Layers panel, and you’ll find such options as Drop Shadow, Inner Glow, and Bevel & Emboss. Layer Styles can make the work of professionals and beginners much easier. Moreover, there are basic layer styles on some online programs for Photoshop while adding a fast effect.
With Layer Styles, your designs could be transformed beyond belief with the least effort.
Conclusion: Mastering Photoshop with These Hidden Gems
There you have it, 10 Photoshop tricks you probably don’t know about! From using Smart Objects to custom brushes, these tips help you edit much more efficiently and creatively. Many of the techniques are applicable in Online Photoshop tools, so you can be flexible in any respect whether you’re working on your desktop or in the cloud.
So, if you’ve been working with Photoshop every day or enter the world of graphics, these hidden tricks will save your time and make better work for you. Try them out and see how much faster you could get tasks.
