What are adjustment layers and how do they work in different software?

What are adjustment layers and how do they work in different software?

Adjustment layers are non-destructive layers that allow you to apply color and tonal adjustments to your images without permanently altering the original image. They are commonly used in software like Photoshop, GIMP, and Affinity Photo.

Can you give me examples of how to use adjustment layers in Photoshop?

In Photoshop, you can create an adjustment layer by going to the Layers panel, clicking on the 'New Adjustment Layer' icon, and selecting an adjustment type like 'Brightness/Contrast' or 'Hue/Saturation'. This allows you to tweak the settings and see the changes in real-time.

Are adjustment layers available in GIMP too?

Yes, GIMP has a similar feature called 'Adjustment Layers' where you can use tools like 'Curves' or 'Levels' to adjust your image. However, the implementation is slightly different compared to Photoshop.

What about in Affinity Photo?

In Affinity Photo, adjustment layers work similarly to Photoshop. You can add them from the Layers panel and apply various adjustments like 'Exposure' or 'Color Balance' without affecting the original image.