Are Luminosity Plugins a Ripoff? // How to create luminosity Masks for free

Every time I show a luminosity mask panel on a youtube video... I always get criticized for showing a 3rd party plug in.... in todays video I show you how to create luminosity masks without the use of a plugin, as well as show some free alternatives to the premium panels.

[romanpul]

There is actually another way to create luminosity masks build into photoshop. The Color Range panel in the select section allows you to pick areas of the image not only by color but also by luminance and you can tweak the selection to your liking with two sliders and then use them as a selection. It‘s way easier than using the channels. Though I personally prefer lumenzia because of the easy access to all the adjustments layers

[chrissnyder]

People spending thousands of dollars on photography gear, but to spend an extra $30-40 (depending on the plugin) to help get the most out of that gear, this is too much?

Nick, I think it was you that got me using TK panels a little over 4 years ago, and absolutely worth it!

[keithpinn]

Hi Nick: Another great video. Personally, I use the TK8 Panels and this has been the most productive tool in my post-processing routines. I highly recommend Tony's products to anyone. It has really improved my understanding of PS significantly. Keep well. . . Keith

[davidhatton]

Tony Kyper's Panel with Sean Bagshaw's tutorials are not only phenomenal products, they are downright cheap for the value that they provide (I would have paid three times as much for what they provide!). Beyond the panels, the photoshop toolbar makes the software so much more pleasant to use. They are a must for serious landscape photographers.

[JT]

Nick, as you rightly say $35-40 for a plugin balanced against the costs of both equipment and travel along with the time saved in processing makes the purchase a no brainer!

[melindapryor]

People commenting that you can create your own luminosity masks have too much time on their hands. I got Lumenzia a year ago and although I'm still learning all its capabilities it's quite an easy tool to use. Another great informative video Nick.

[davidaldridge]

Thanks Nick. Hopefully, this will shut up all the wankers who complained about your last luminosity mask video. I use TK Actions which makes Photoshop very quick and easy to use without having to remember a myriad of menu options and shortcut keys. TK8 has certainly speeded up my workflow and is well worth the cheap cost of purchase.

[TravelPhotoGuy]

I'm just now getting into using luminosity mask. I used Greg Benz luminosity I find it easily to use especially for beginner. I can understand arguments for and against using a third party lumenzia mask. I think you should just use whatever you feel comfortable with personally. Another great video keep them coming

[timscanlanphotography]

Hi Nick. I first learned how to use luminosity masks from your tutorials. I use Greg's Lumenzia and for me it's been a game changer. Like the idea of adding a couple of my own masks as you've shown here ! Many thanks for sharing.

[williamcarter]

I can't imagine editing without TK Actions. I also have Ray Pro, but Tony's actions are my day to day tool I can't live without! Huge time saver.

[cooperreid]

One of the best videos I've found on how to create good luminosity masks, and I appreciate the breakdown of some of the add ons too

[JohnEboyee]

Appreciate you going through these. I created some luminosity channel actions that helped me learn what was going on behind the scenes, but that tedious workflow was wearing me down. Went with Lumenzia and it's so incredibly convenient and light weight, well worth the price! As I've grown older I've realized the importance of maximizing time. Any tool that speeds up time behind the wheel allows for more time getting a good night's rest that we all need more of in this busy world.

[DanFox]

It's strange the stuff people will complain about and get righteously indignant over on YouTube lol. Anyway... I'm a Lumenzia convert due to a video you posted a couple years ago at this point and I love it (and the awesome support that Greg includes).

[RichardGingrasPhotography]

Thank you so much for sharing this information on the free versions of luminosity masking plugins. I'm just getting into luminosity masking but wasn't ready to dish out the money for a full version before I get the hang of it.

[daemon]

Taa for that Nick. After your last video on this topic I grabbed the TK8 plugin and now I'm coping with the learning curve.

[jvalenta]

I am very happy TK9 user. It has been my favorite plugins for many years. I cannot even imagine editing without it. I would give my vote to Tony anytime!

[GARYA]

Thanks, Nick!! This is a GREAT explanation of Luminosity Masking!! I have it but never really used it because I really didn't understand it! This video helped me tremendously!!

[alanweston]

Your explanation at the start of the video clarify a couple of points that I've been struggling with. Thanks, great stuff

[JPHPhotographs]

Hey Nick, another fantastic beginner/intermediate level, information packed tutorial! Keep it up.

[djking]

Great vid, love to see your wf with TK8 or Lumenzia. Hope the back gets better soon 🍻