Luminosity blending the best techniques?

[aceto81]

While reading this thread, I came up with this one (a combination between the luminosity masks and Chris' technique of gradient maps):
ctrl-click on the rgb channel
make a new adjustment layer > gradient map
choose default black to white, check reverse and click OK.
Mode of the adjustment layer: lineair burn.
Now turn back opacitity to about 10, depending on the picture.

This wil tone down the highlights while preserving smooth transitions and good shadow details.


Aceto

[DJSoulglo]

Must say after months of "D&B" discussions and the old Dave Hill look thread this is a breath of fresh air and useable techniques that I'm loving.

Thanks guys.