Color Matching items in Photoshop

In the following tutorial, we will learn how to match colors in Photoshop. This feature will come in handy when creating composites by combining multiple images in one. The difference in colors can be balanced out to achieve a more realistic overall look.

You can also use color matching between different photos for a consistent look or when using the same style.

We will use a photo of friends taking a selfie as the subject, and a sunset landscape for the background. If you would like to use other photos, be sure to browse our selection containing photos of people or photos of nature.

Step 1 - Outline Subject with a Mask

First, we want to isolate our subject to add it to our other image and create a composite.

So, pick whatever selection tool you prefer from the toolbar. We used the Object Selection Tool (W), but you can use the Quick Selection Tool or the Magic Wand Tool.

Then, use it to make your selection or click on the Select Subject button on the top menu to let Photoshop do it for you.

You can use the Add to Selection option on the top menu and keep clicking on sections of the item you want to outline. If your selection expands too much, you can use Subtract from Selection to get rid of the unwanted portions.

Create a Mask of Selection

Then, mask your selection by clicking on the button at the bottom of the Layers panel.

Refine Edges of Selected Area if Needed

You may want to refine the selected area further. If you need more help with this, check out our guide on how to smooth mask edges to get a better idea.

Once done, choose New Layer as the Output to option to create a new layer containing only your selection.

Step 2 - Merge Images to Create a Composite

Open the image you want to use as background. Then, drag the masked subject thumbnail in to place it inside the file.

Adjust Size and Placement of the Subject

Since you are combining two different images, you may need to adjust the subject layer to fit better with the background.

Make sure the subject layer thumbnail is selected. Then enter Free Transform (Command/Control + T) to resize and/or reposition the subject. Hit Enter or click the small checkmark on the top menu when you are done.

Step 3 - Match Color of Subject Layer to Background

Next, we are going to match the color from our subject layer with the one from the background layer. We want to create a blended, realistic look as much as possible.

Duplicate the Subject Layer

First, we are going to create a duplicate. This is because we are going to apply a destructive modification to our subject. Creating a duplicate will keep the original layer intact in case we want to go back to it later on.

So, select your layer and click Command/Control + J to make the duplicate. Then, rename the duplicate layer Subject. Hice the original one by clicking on the small eye icon on the left side of its thumbnail.

Color Match Your Layers

To match the color of your layers, go to Image > Adjustments > Match Color. Make sure that the Preview box is checked so you can see the changes. Choose your file as Source on the drop-down menu and Background as Layer.

Check theNeutralize box to get a more realistic color. Then, play around with the Luminance, Color Intensity, and Fade values. When you are satisfied with how the color of both images work together, click Ok.

You can use any open document as the source for the color matching. You can also create selections in both source and target to help you refine the adjustments. Remember to check the boxes for Use Selection in Source to Calculate Colors, and Use Selection in Target to Calculate Adjustment to take advantage of this feature.

Step 4 - Use Curves Adjustment Layer

We now want to give a more accurate tone to our composite image. So we are going to add an Adjustment Layer on top of everything.

Open theAdjustments Panel (Windows > Adjustments) and add a new Curves Adjustment Layer Adjust the values to your liking or use one of the presets on the Properties Panel. We used Linear Contrast (RGB).

We are now done matching the colors of our combined images. This really easy time saving technique helped to create a great looking composite in Photoshop.

For comparison, here is a before and after of our image.

You’ve now learned how to color match in Photoshop! If you’d like to learn more, make sure to check out our Photoshop guides on using the Patch Tool and how to change hair color in Photoshop.