How to Create a Luminosity Mask in Photoshop

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Open your image in Photoshop.

   What this will be doing is selecting all of the luminosity.
   
   In this particular image, there isn't much. ,, For this article, the Curves tool will be used. , This works just as well using any of the Adjustment Layer options.
   
   In this screenshot, it is a Vibrance adjustment layer. , It will be applying itself to the lighter values of the picture. , This will duplicate the mask. , Do this by pressing Ctrl+I.
   
   With this mask you can edit the darker parts of the image in varying degrees. , Each different type of adjustment, you just add an adjustment layer.
   
   Here is an example of the fine grained editing you can do with a luminosity mask.
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   Step 2: Go to the Channels tab and then

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   Step 3: while holding down Ctrl

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   Step 4: click on the RGB channel.

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   Step 5: Go back to the Layers tab.

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   Step 6: Add an Adjustment Layer.

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   Step 7: Holding down your Alt key

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   Step 8: click on the layer mask that you now see.

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   Step 9: Use this mask.

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    Step 10: Create another adjustment layer by pressing Ctrl+J.

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    Step 11: Invert the mask.

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    Step 12: Start making adjustments.

Detailed Guide

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