> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://support.skylum.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://support.skylum.com/editing-tools/masking-options/luminosity-masking.md).

# Luminosity Masking

Learn to make precision edits based on brightness with Luminar for Desktop’s Luminosity Masking. Ideal for contrast and lighting control.

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Note:** Some interface details and visuals in this article may differ from the latest version of Luminar for Desktop. To see the current interface, visit the [Luminar for Desktop walkthrough](/how-to-use-luminar-for-desktop/luminar-for-desktop-walkthrough.md).
{% endhint %}

{% @arcade/embed url="<https://app.arcade.software/share/PHKdKvxsKoxLWiz53TNw>" flowId="PHKdKvxsKoxLWiz53TNw" %}

Luminosity Masks are a powerful feature in our photo editing software that allows you to make selective adjustments to your images based on lightness or darkness (luminance) levels. This means you can adjust just the highlights, midtones, or shadows without affecting the rest of the picture.

#### **How to Use Luminosity Masks for Targeted Adjustments**

You can find Luminosity Masking under "Masking" in most tools or Layers. Just click on the "Masking" tab.

**Open Your Image:** Access Luminar and go to the Edit section to enter Edit mode. Choose a tool from the panel to start making changes to your image. Then, move to the Masking section to refine your edits further.

**Applying the Luminosity Masks Tool:** In your editing panel, find the 'Luminosity' option and open it to access the Luminosity Masks feature.

**- Select Luminance Range:** Use the slider to choose the luminance range you want to adjust. The slider spans from dark to light, corresponding to shadows, midtones, and highlights in your image.\
**- Preview the Mask:** Once you select a range, the affected areas will be highlighted on your image. You can adjust the slider until the preview matches the areas you want to edit.\
**- Apply Your Adjustments:** With the mask in place, any adjustments you make will only apply to the selected luminance range. Adjust exposure, contrast, or color only where you want it.\
**- Refine the Mask:** If necessary, you can refine the mask further by adjusting the feathering for a softer transition between the masked and unmasked areas.\
**- Save Your Edit:** Once you are happy with the changes, apply them and save your image. Your edits are non-destructive, so you can always revert to the original image if needed.

{% hint style="warning" %}
Please note that Masking is not available in Noiseless RAW and Develop RAW tools. Once you apply any adjustments, these tools will automatically switch to their non-RAW versions, and the Masking option will become available.
{% endhint %}


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