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Tone

Tone Shadows & Highlights

Selectively edit and control image shadows and highlights with the Tone tool in the VSCO app.

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Download the VSCO mobile app to try using the image Tone tool to mute overexposed highlights or to reveal details hidden in dark shadows.

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Control image shadows and highlights

Find the perfect balance between light and dark with photo Tone. Rescue harsh, afternoon sun shadows and highlights, or capture dynamic golden hour light with rich detail across your composition.

Two swimmers standing on rock surrounded by crashing ocean waves edited for image tone to adjust highlights and shadows
Two swimmers standing on rock surrounded by crashing ocean waves edited for image tone to adjust highlights and shadows
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Selective tone editing

Use the image Tone editor to target your photo and video editing. The independent Highlights and Shadows sliders can be used to selectively change the bright and dark areas of your image.

Boost dynamic range

By adding tone to picture highlights while simultaneously boosting dark shadows, the Tone editor can be used to create a high dynamic range look with detail across the entire exposure.

Combine with Contrast

Combine and complement the Tone tool with Contrast. Use the extra highlight and shadow controls of image Tone to help bring balance to a high contrast edit or photo filter.

How to edit shadows & highlights with Tone

Capture or import photos or videos with the VSCO mobile app and use the photo editor to access the image Tone editor tool. Use the Shadows and Highlights sliders to control and preview changes. Try finishing your image or video edit with a Pro Preset.

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Frequently asked questions

What does the tone editor do for photos?

The tone tool for iPhone and Android in the VSCO app lets you adjust highlights and shadows in photos and videos to bring out more detail in bright or dark areas. It’s perfect for balancing light across your image.

How is tone different from exposure or contrast?

Tone editing focuses on adjusting shadows and highlights, while exposure changes overall brightness and contrast affects the difference between light and dark. The tone tool gives you more control over specific parts of the image.

What other photo editing features pair with tone?

Pair the tone tool with other VSCO editing features like image contrast, HSL, and photo presets to help fine-tune your photo tone and style. Use them together to create a balanced image with clear shadows and highlights.

Can I edit tone in videos?

Yes, VSCO offers tone image editing for both photos and videos on iPhone and Android. Use the highlights and shadows sliders to enhance lighting in any frame.

How does editing image tone work with filters?

You can use the tone tool to adjust highlights and shadows after applying a filter. It’s a great way to refine how a preset interacts with your image for more control and creative flexibility.

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