Have you been using the selection and masking tools in Lightroom? Or have you been putting it off, as it looks a little daunting? Or perhaps you’re not really sure what to do with it?

Here is a simple step-by-step on how to brighten (or darken) your background and brighten up and add more detail to your subject. Let’s start with a fairly simple still life photo.

Using select and mask in Lightroom
Using select and mask in Lightroom

I am using Lightroom Classic desktop version on Windows, but it should be fairly similar on a Mac. Lightroom Mobile will be located in a different spot, but the same principles should apply. I put together a little video on how to use the desktop version.

Before and after

Want to learn more on selection and masking tools in Lightroom? Or are you looking for some more Lightroom tips and tricks? Why not check out my FREE Lightroom 101 page, or pick a class (also listed) or check out our Photofocus Community page?