When you open a JPEG image in Photoshop you get the display shown below. Here we can see the same image we used in the
RAW example, so still way too dark.
First select the 'Layer' option and from the subsequent drop down lists
choose 'New Adjustment layer' and then 'Levels'. After this screen
you'll get a small box asking you to name the level. Give it a name of your choice or just accept the default name by clicking
'OK'.
You should now see the screen below.
You can try the 'Auto' button to see how Photoshop thinks your image should be adjusted. Like so...
In this case I think it's too bright in some areas and it needs a little more brightness in other areas. Underneath the 'Input Levels'
value boxes is a graphical view of the input levels. Click on the small white pointer on the right and drag it left to brighten the
image. Drag it until the brightest parts of the image is as bright as you want them to be without losing any detail. Now click on the
small grey pointer in the centre and drag it left also. Drag it until the remaining darker areas are as light as you want them to be.
If the colours look a little washed out, slide the white pointer under the right hand end of the 'Output Levels' display to the left
also, until you are happy with the picture. Et, voila!
By selecting, 'Layer', 'New Adjustment Layer' you can also modify the 'Hue/Saturation' if you wish. So have a play with the level controls. As long as you don't save the image with the same name as your original you can always go back and start afresh.
