Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION: LEVELS BEFORE CURVES
I never know where to start adjusting the colors in my photos. Some photo mavens talk about us-
ing Levels, others about Curves. Which should I use?
In addition to Levels, Elements includes a much-requested feature from Photoshop—
Color
Curves
. Despite the name, the Curves tool isn't some kind of arc-drawing tool; instead, it's a
sophisticated way of adjusting the colors in photos. Curves works something like Levels, but with
many more points of correction.
In Elements, you get a simplified version of Photoshop's Curves dialog box, with a few preset op-
tions. Because this version doesn't have quite as many adjustment points as in Photoshop, you get
some of the advanced color control of Curves without all the complexity.
Generally speaking, a quick Levels adjustment is usually all you need to achieve good, realistic
color. But if you still aren't satisfied with the contrast in your image or you want to create funky
artistic effects, flip to
Color Curves: Enhancing Tone and Contrast
to learn how to use Color
Curves.
