LHTSOFT Photo · BETA · Product guide
Brightness, curves and color adjustments — non-destructive workflow
Correct exposure, contrast and color in LHTSOFT Photo using adjustment layers, levels and RGB curves without losing editable source layers.
Good color editing is a sequence of deliberate comparisons. Instead of applying one extreme filter, correct exposure first, balance contrast second, and refine color last. LHTSOFT Photo provides editable adjustments for this process.
Start with brightness and contrast
Increasing brightness without checking highlights can erase cloud detail, white clothing texture or product edges. A lighter image is not always a more readable image.
- Open the image and place an adjustment layer above the relevant raster content.
- Make a modest brightness change, then adjust contrast. Check the darkest shadows and brightest highlights for lost detail.
- Toggle the adjustment off and on before moving to the next step. If the change affects too much, reduce its intensity.
Levels versus curves
Levels are useful for moving black, midpoint and white tone boundaries. Move the controls carefully when a photo has poor tonal distribution; clipping a black or white point removes visible detail.
Curves give finer control. A gentle S-shaped RGB curve can add contrast; channel curves can shift color balance but can also introduce unwanted color casts. Start with small changes and review neutral gray or white objects.
Saturation, hue and different targets
High saturation may make packaging appear inaccurate or skin tones artificial. For product photography, compare the edited image with the physical object if color accuracy is important.
A social thumbnail may benefit from a stronger look, whereas a document screenshot or UI illustration usually needs neutral colors and crisp edges. Keep your intended output size and audience in mind.
Why save both project and image
Adjustment layers remain changeable only in an editable project. Export a PNG/JPEG/WebP image for the audience and a separate .lhtp file for yourself. If a PSD export flattens your adjustment structure, follow the compatibility warning rather than assuming Photoshop can re-edit it.