8.2. Color Balance

The color balance tool modifies the color balance of the active selection or layer. Changes are not drastic. This tool is suitable to correct predominant colors in digital photos.

[Note]Note

This command does not work on Grayscale images. If the image is Grayscale, the menu entry is disabled.

8.2.1. Activating the Tool

You can get to the Color balance through: Colors → Color Balance…

8.2.2. Options

Figure 16.147. Color Balance options

Color Balance options

Presets

“Presets” are a common feature for several Colors commands. You can find its description in Section 8.1.1, “Colors Common Features”.

Select range to adjust

Selecting one of these options restricts the range of colors which are changed with the sliders or input boxes for Shadows (darkest pixels), Midtones (medium pixels) and Highlights (brightest pixels).

Adjust color levels

Sliders and range from the three RGB colors to their complementary colors (CMY). The zero position corresponds to the current level value of pixels in the original image. You can change the pixel color either towards Red or Cyan, Green or Magenta, Blue or Yellow.

Reset Range

This button sets color levels of the selected range back to the zero position (original values).

Preserve Luminosity

This option ensures that brightness of the active layer or selection is maintained. The Value of brightest pixels is not changed.

Blending Options, Preview and Split view

These are common features described in Section 8.1.1, “Colors Common Features”.