Buzz
/:16 We've shared many ways to achieve vibrant colors in your photos, but if you're not satisfied with the color you're working with, you're not stuck with it. Here are two methods to alter the color of any object in your photo.
The video above demonstrates two techniques for changing colors in your photos using Photoshop. The first method involves the color replacement tool/brush to paint over the desired color, while the second method is more complex and involves selecting the object manually and adjusting its lighting and color values.
Utilizing the Color Replacement Tool
The color replacement tool is tucked under the standard brush tool in Photoshop. It’s the quickest way to change a color in a photo, so when it works, it’s the most efficient option. Simply choose the color you want to replace and paint over the color you want to change.
One of the great features of the color replacement tool is its edge detection, allowing you to paint with more freedom without worrying about going outside the lines. However, if your brush size is too large, Photoshop will become more strict with the edges. It's fine to use a large brush for broad areas, but reduce the brush size when you need to refine the edges.
And that's it. When it works, it’s that simple.
The Harder Method
When the tool doesn’t work, you may end up with an unrealistic color, like the blue eye shown on the left. To avoid this and achieve a more natural look, I prefer to take a more hands-on approach.
I absolutely love the polygonal lasso—it’s fantastic. I rely on it for most of my selection tasks. It’s especially great for selecting rough shapes like eyes. You’ll find it hidden beneath the regular lasso tool in the toolbar.
Use the tool to select both eyes, then copy and paste that selection onto a new layer. Now, the original eye color exists in its own layer. Desaturate the layer (Mac: Command+Shift+U / Windows: Control+Shift+U), and if desired, apply auto tone (Mac: Command+Shift+L / Windows: Command+Shift+L) to brighten it slightly (we’ll refine it further later).
Create a new (empty) layer and select the eyes again (command/control + click the layer). Use the paint bucket tool to fill the eyes with a light blue, then change the layer's blending mode to Color. It might appear a bit strong, so lower the opacity significantly. A range of 10-20% should work well.
Next, go back to the eye layer (not the color layer we just worked on, but the one underneath it) and open the Curves tool. If you lift the curve a little, you should brighten things up nicely. The blue will become more vibrant—but in a realistic way—since the dark areas of the eye aren’t as dark anymore. Once you’re satisfied, you’re finished. Just remember to zoom out to ensure the effect works well at a distance too.
That’s all there is to it! Have any great tips for changing colors? Feel free to share them in the comments.
