nxtr24.pdf

Using Auto Levels

Request

I would like to enhance contrast in an image (make it more dynamic).

Response

Image contrast can be enhanced (image made more dynamic) using auto enhancement

features, or with manual adjustment based on auto enhancements.

Before

An image that is dull and lifeless

with insufficient brightness.

After

Contrast is enhanced to make the image

more dynamic with optimum brightness.

Procedures

STEP 1: Check image contrast levels

Open an image.

Check the histogram. In general, the spikes on histograms for low-contrast images (those

that are rather dull and lifeless) are concentrated in the center of the histogram, indicating

insufficient shadows and highlights. The histogram for this image shows the characteristic

concentration of spikes at the center.

The spikes on the histogram

are concentrated at the center.

Enlarging the histogram

With Capture NX Ver. 1.1, the histogram can be enlarged. Click the button at the top right of the

Photo Info palette to enlarge histogram display. Click the same button again to return display to

normal size.

Click the button indicated here to enlarge and reduce

histogram display.

STEP 2: Use Auto Levels to automatically enhance the image

Select Auto Levels… from the Light submenu in the Adjust menu.

An Auto Levels step is added to the Edit List.

The Auto Levels dialog is displayed.

The image is enhanced with Auto Levels.

If satisfied with the results of automatic enhancement, click OK .

If automatic enhancement does not result in satisfactory contrast or hues, proceed to STEP 3.

At default settings, Auto is selected in the

Auto Levels dialog. At the Auto setting,

contrast and color cast are automatically

adjusted. If satisfactory contrast or hues are

not achieved with automatic enhancement,

proceed to the next step without clicking OK .