In this in-depth Photoshop tutorial, you'll learn how to create highly targeted midtone luminosity masks using only built-in Photoshop tools — no plugins needed. Building on our previous video covering highlight and shadow masks, this lesson shows how to combine those selections within a group layer to isolate and refine the midtone range. Whether you're working on a landscape photo or fine-tuning tones in any image, this method gives you precise control over midtone adjustments.
What You'll Learn in This Video:
- How to create underlying luminosity selections using keyboard shortcuts (Ctrl+Alt+2 / Cmd+Opt+2)
- How to build and refine both highlight and shadow masks
- How to use layer groups and group masks to isolate midtones
- Live demonstration using both a grayscale gradient and a landscape photo from Big Bend National Park
- Tips for adjusting masks for more precise midtone targeting
Recommended Prerequisite
We strongly recommend watching our highlight and shadow mask tutorial first to get the most out of this midtone masking technique.
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Who This Is For
This tutorial is perfect for landscape photographers, digital artists, and anyone who wants to take their Photoshop masking techniques to the next level — all without relying on third-party plugins.
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