The first and second edition of Photography BB Magazine talk about a Curve Adjustment layer in Photoshop. Is there a workaround for Photoshop Elements, as I do not see a "Curves" adjustment layer they referred to? All curve adjustments are done either directly on the layer or on a second layer, not an adjustment layer. I like the suggestion using a Curves adjustment layer.

Also, if I color correct using the Levels adjustment, is it necessary to use Curves also? Also, would using curves negate the need for color saturation? I've adjusted levels, bumped the color saturation (floral pictures) +10-15, plus used the Curves increase contrast. Is this overkill or should I use only color saturation or curves, not both? Your advice will be greatly appreciated.

Joanne
PSE 8
Rebel Xsi

I've not used PS Elements in some time, but I thought there was a curves adjustment layer. It didn't allow as many adjustment point as the full blown PS versions. But if not, I'd duplicate my background layer then apply curves to that layer. What you are going for is a non destructive edit. That basically means don't touch the background layer.

Hope this helps somewhat.

Welcome to the Forum Joann.

This is what I downloaded to have curves in Elements. It works in 5.0 and 7.0, should work in 8.0. It will load in your Filters menu.
http://www.earthboundlight.com/phototip ... s-4-5.html

If you don't have a layer mask plug-in yet I use this one. It allows you to add a mask to any layer, not just adjustment layers.
http://graphicssoft.about.com/od/pselem ... sktool.htm

There is no "one rule" to fit every shot Joanne. Some photos will benefit from just one adjustment while others require several adjusments. It just comes down to what you are trying to achieve and what looks good to you. Are you shooting in RAW or jpeg?

Stop by the Members Introduction thread and tell us a bit about you. We're a friendly group here and someone will always try to help out.

Depending on the subject and the lighting, RAW or JPG. I shoot in both.