The contrast of an image is what gives it dimension. In this tutorial, we show you how you can achieve the precise contrast—or number of shades in an image—you desire. Check out below to see how easy it is to modify the contrast, and read the steps that follow. With just a few finger taps, you’ll see your image go from lackluster to just right.
The Basics
Adobe Lightroom Mobile is an intuitively designed app with an impressive array of editing tools that make post-production a breeze in the palm of your hand. This and forthcoming tutorials focus on the editing capabilities Lightroom Mobile provides, but it is equally powerful at helping you organize, store, share your images—and even capture them in HDR.
Lightroom can be purchased on its own, including access to the latest updates and releases, or by purchasing a Creative Cloud Photography plan. Both plans start at $9.99 a month. Creative Cloud plans come packaged with other perks and apps, as well as GBs of cloud storage. Businesses, students & teachers, and schools & universities are offered special plans and pricing. You can also try it out by activating a free seven-day trial.
How to Correct Contrast in Photos With Lightroom Mobile
1. Open Lightroom Mobile
Open Lightroom Mobile.
2. Select the Image
Locate the image you would like to edit.
3. Tap Light
At the bottom of the screen in the editing tool scroll bar, tap Light.
Doing so reveals options for editing the light in your photograph.
4. Move the Contrast Slide
The Contrast Slide within the light editing tools allows you to achieve the desired contrast.
An image with low contrast has a smaller number of shades within it. The shadows are brightened and the highlights are darkened so that there is less difference between them.
An image with high contrast has a larger number of shades with it. The shadows are darkened and the highlights are brightened so that there is a larger difference between them.
Moving the Contrast Slide to the left gives the image less contrast. As a result, the shadows are brighter and the highlights are darker.
Moving the Contrast Slide to the right gives the image more contrast. As a result, the shadows get darker and the highlights get brighter.
5. Tap the Arrow
Once you have modified the contrast of your image, tap the arrow at the top left to save your edits.
6. Enjoy Your Contrast-Corrected Image
Alas, your contrast-correct picture! The white dot below the Light editing icon signifies your edits have been made.
Set Your Contrast Thoughtfully
Making a picture is just the beginning. The adjustments you make to that image, after the fact, affect how viewers take in your image. A high-contrast image can feel bold and flashy. A low-contrast image can feel soft and even. Neither are right or wrong. It just depends on the look you are trying to achieve in your image. Whether you are changing the setting on the enlarger in the wet darkroom or adjusting the Contrast Slide in Lightroom Mobile, these choices are one way you can imbue your pictures with the meaning you desire.
