Apply a gradient map to an image

The Gradient Map adjustment maps the equivalent grayscale range of an image to the colors of a specified gradient fill. If you specify a two‑color gradient fill, for example, shadows in the image are mapped to one of the endpoint colors of the gradient fill, highlights are mapped to the other endpoint color, and midtones are mapped to the gradations in between.

  1. Do one of the following:

    • Click the Gradient Map icon  in the Adjustments panel.

    • Choose Layer > New Adjustment Layer > Gradient Map. Click OK in the New Layer dialog box.

    Note: You can also choose Image > Adjustments > Gradient Map. But keep in mind that this method applies the adjustment directly to the image layer and discards image information.
  2. In the Adjustments panel, specify the gradient fill you want to use:

    • To choose from a list of gradient fills, click the triangle to the right of the gradient fill. Click to select the desired gradient fill, and then click in a blank area of the Adjustments panel to dismiss the list. For information on customizing the gradient fill list, see Work with the Preset Manager.

    • To edit the gradient fill currently displayed in the Adjustment panel, click the gradient fill. Then modify the existing gradient fill or create a gradient fill using the Gradient Editor. (See Create a smooth gradient.)

    By default, the shadows, midtones, and highlights of the image are mapped respectively to the starting (left) color, midpoint, and ending (right) color of the gradient fill.

  3. Select either, none, or both of the Gradient options:
    Dither
    Adds random noise to smooth the appearance of the gradient fill and reduces banding effects.

    Reverse
    Switches the direction of the gradient fill, reversing the gradient map.