Explore the Multiply blending mode

Multiply is a versatile mode that can be used for a wide range of effects, either on its own or combined with other modes

Blending modes are one of the unsung heroes of Photoshop, providing multiple effects that can be applied to any image layer. Of course, some are more relevant to photographers than others, but one that you should familiarise yourself with is Multiply, which is a ‘darkening’ blending mode. Not only does Multiply darken, it also applies a degree of transparency to layers – allowing the underlying Layer to show through.

We’re going to focus purely on Multiply but, at the other end of the scale, there’s Screen which is a directly opposite lightening blending mode. Anything we cover here can, therefore, be flipped to a brighter effect using Screen. What’s more, duplicate an Adjustment Layer set to Multiply and set the blending mode of the duplicated version to Screen for a kind of balancing effect in terms of luminosity. And the opportunities are almost endless when you throw Opacity and Layer Groups into the mix.

1 Controlled moody desaturation