Contrast (1/4 and 3/4 Tone)

Contrast is controlled by moving the ¼- and ¾-tone points away from each other (increased contrast) or toward each other (decreased contrast).

Increase Contrast

While still in the Adjustment Layer Curves Dialog Box, adjust the ¼- and ¾-tones. Make sure the value readout is set to Ink Percentage. Make sure the Preview (eye icon at the bottom) is selected. Move the ¼-tone point down and the ¾-tone point up to increase contrast. Use the Kenly 3•6•9 Rule. You can check and uncheck the Preview eye icon to see the effects of your ¼- and ¾-tone adjustments.

Decrease Contrast

Move the ¼-tone point up and the ¾-tone point down to reduce contrast. Apply the Kenly 3•6•9 Rule. You can check and uncheck the Preview eye icon to see the effects of your ¼- and ¾-tone adjustments.

Kenly 3•6•9 Rule

The Kenly 3•6•9 Rule provides guidance for adjustments in Curves. Developed by Eric Kenly, the rule states the following:

An adjustment of 3% is a minor correction.
An adjustment of 6% is a moderate correction.
An adjustment of 9% is a major correction.

Any adjustment greater than 9% suggests that the image may need to be recaptured.

These percentages apply to both positive and negative ranges. Adjustments of +6% or -6% are both moderate.

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