Synopses & Reviews
This definitive resource on using Adobe Photoshop blend modes, features dozens of hands-on examples to give you an edge in technical, personal, and commercial projects
Blend modes are an essential, if somewhat mysterious, tool for photographers and digital artists. They can be used to for a wide range of imaging effects and challenges, such as noise reduction, working with high dynamic range (HDR) images, compositing, graphic design, and digital painting. Although blend modes can be easy to use, they aren’t always easy to understand. Scott Valentine translates the technical elements into every day language and demonstrates techniques using real-world examples.
Whether you’re a professional or hobbyist, there’s something here for you. Beginning and intermediate users of Photoshop will learn how blend modes work and get up to speed on the most common techniques. The book will also feature power tips and blend mode techniques from industry experts, including Katrin Eismann, Matt Kloskowski, and RC Concepcion. Advanced and technical users will find indispensable references along with powerful enhancements and corrections. More than just a collection of effects and recipes, The Hidden Power of Blend Modes explains why the techniques work and how to tune them for your own specific needs.
About the Author
Scott Valentine started with Photoshop working on optical and electron microscopy images, becoming a Subject Matter Expert at a national laboratory. With a degree in Physics and dual minors in Music and Theater, he has a unique perspective on balancing the technical with the artistic. This is reflected in Scott’s teaching and presentation style, along with an understanding of how users approach the creative process and the tools they use.
Scott has been a featured presenter for RetouchPRO and several Adobe user groups. He’s also a User Group Manager and Adobe Community Professional helping users get the most out of Photoshop for nearly ten years. When not at a keyboard, he enjoys backpacking, playing hockey, and playing guitar.
Table of Contents
Part 1 — General Techniques
Ch 1 - Introduction
What are blend modes
What tools use blend modes
Color space and bit depth
Ch 2 - General Techniques
Painting & Paths
Fading Effects
Adjustment Layers
Apply Image
Calculations
Layer Controls
Combining Blends
Part 2 — Blend Mode Techniques
Ch 3 - Photographic Adjustments
Ch 4 - Photographic Effects & Compositing
Ch 5 - Graphic Design, Painting, & Illustration
Ch 6 - Data & Technical
Part 3 - List of Blend Modes
Appendices
Appendix A - Color Modes and Bit Depth
Appendix B - Table of Blend Modes Reference
Appendix C - References & Downloads