How to Use Elements+ Selections – Select Color Range

Ready to master Select Color Range using Elements+? This tool is perfect for selecting specific colors in an image—ideal for tasks like isolating an object, changing colors, or applying targeted adjustments.

Since Photoshop Elements doesn’t have a native Select Color Range feature, Elements+ comes to the rescue by adding this pro-level functionality.

What is "Select Color Range"?

Select Color Range lets you create a selection based on specific colors in your image. For example, if you want to select only the blues in a sky or the reds in a flower, this tool makes it easy to do so with precision.

How to Use "Select Color Range" in Elements+:

  1. Open Your Image
    Load the image you want to work on in Photoshop Elements.

  2. Launch Elements+

    • Go to the Effects panel and scroll down to the Elements+ section.
    • Select Selections from the available options.

  3. Choose "Select Color Range"

    • In the Selections section, click "Select Color Range".
    • A dialog box will appear, showing your image and a few options to control the selection.

  4. Pick a Color

    • Use the Eyedropper tool in the dialog box to click on the color in your image that you want to select.
    • The preview will show the selected areas in white (selected) and black (unselected).

  5. Adjust the Fuzziness

    • The Fuzziness slider controls how broad the color selection is:
      • Lower values = a more precise selection (less range of similar colors).
      • Higher values = a broader selection (includes more similar colors).
    • Move the slider until you’re happy with the selection.

  6. Click OK to Create the Selection

    • Once you’ve fine-tuned your color range, click OK.
    • Elements+ will convert your color range into an active selection.

  7. Apply Your Edits

    • With your selection active, you can:
      • Change colors using Hue/Saturation or Replace Color.
      • Apply filters or adjustments like Brightness/Contrast, Levels, or Curves.
      • Create masks for more advanced, non-destructive editing.

Pro Tips for Using Select Color Range

  • Refine the Selection: If you want smoother edges, go to Select > Feather and apply a slight feathering.
  • Adding or Subtracting Colors: You can hold Shift to add more colors to your selection or Alt/Option to subtract colors while using the Eyedropper tool in the dialog box.
  • Invert the Selection: Want to select everything except the chosen color? Go to Select > Inverse after creating your selection.

This tool is super handy for color-based editing, like turning backgrounds black and white while keeping the subject in color or selectively enhancing specific hues.