The Hidden Power of Blend Modes in Adobe Photoshop

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 Modesexplains why the techniques work and how to tune them for your own specific needs.

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.

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