Stronger Overlay Blend Mode

[galvaros]

Dear all,

how can i make the effect of an overlay blend mode layer stronger, WITHOUT duplicating the corresponding layer? (the layer is already at 100% opacity)

My problem is this: an overlay blend mode layer with some blacks and whites in it does darken/lighten the target layer, but not enough. the blacks do not affect the target layer enough, i.e. it does not get dark enough. The same holds for white, it does not lighten the target layer enough.

Duplicating would solve the problem, but it's cumbersome to have two layers of the same content, especially if there are alot of different layers to be composited and most of them are to be warped (which cannot be applied to two layers simultaneously)

Any suggestions greatly appreciated!

Thanks guys!

[mistermonday]

A curves adjustment or adjustment layer is one of the most effective ways of increasing contrast. Will one not work for you on this type of image?
Regards, MM

[galvaros]

mistermonday, thanks for your answer. the goal is not to increase contrast, though.

the goal is to composite a (complex) layer onto another layer using the overlay blend mode, and the problem is that the blended layer does not affect the underlying layer enough. specific example: a black in the blend layer does not turn the underlying layer dark enough, a white does not turn the underlying layer light enough. the only solution i could come up so far is to double the overayed layer. i'm asking for another solution which does not need doubling and affects the underlying layer more.

thanks guys!

[Michel B]

Would adding an ajustment layer (any kind) in overlay mode linked with the upper layer do the trick?

[David Stevenson]

Why not go ahead and duplicate the original layer and if the new layer is to your liking, delete the first layer.

[gmitchel]

Have you tried Hard Light. It combines Screen and Multiply.

BTW, if you want to darken the darker tones and lighten the lighter tones, you are affecting contrast.

Cheers,

Mitch

[galvaros]

thanks guys!

Michel B: this gets pretty close on a first test, i'll experiment more in this direction, thanks!

[Michel B]

Originally Posted by galvaros

thanks guys!

Michel B: this gets pretty close on a first test, i'll experiment more in this direction, thanks!

Adding a (non adjusted) adjustment layer in a blend mode has exactly the same result as duplicating the layer with the same blend mode with the advantage of not increasing your working file size. Plus Elements users get a mask...