I talk a lot about Color Grading, Color Theory, and the tools you can use to manipulate the looks of your photos. However, I have never spoken about the Photo Filter Adjustment Layer. Why is that?

From my research and experimentation, I have found that the Photo Filter is not as predictable as my other go-to methods for color grading.  It doesn’t respond the same way that a Solid Color Fill, gradient, or gradient map would to specific blend modes.

Today I will go into some of my experimentation processes to show you how I analyze whether or not something should be used in my workflow. You can replicate this strategy for experimentation in your workflow to help you determine if you should take on a new tool or technique.  At the end of your investigation, if there is no added value to your workflow, it may not be the tool or process for you.

Blake Rudis
f.64 Academy and f.64 Elite are the brainchildren of Blake Rudis. While he is a landscape photographer, he is most passionate about post-processing images in Photoshop and mentoring others.

For Blake, it's all about the art and process synergy. He dives deep into complex topics and makes them easy to understand through his outside-the-box thinking so that you can use these tricks in your workflow today!
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