Can I use an image as a colour map/mask?

[snowiebuns]

Hi there!

So I have two images. One is in colour and the other isn't. The lower layer is what I'm using for shading, and the upper layer is the base colour. Usually I use the hue/saturation tool to colorize a shading layer, but this time I want to apply more than one colour to specific places over my shading layer.

I hope my wording isn't too confusing!

Basically, the multiply effect with a plain grey ambient occlusion layer makes it look muddy, and I'm going for vibrance, so I want to colorize those grey parts of the layer using an image.

Is this possible?

For those who are confused I'm doing this for substance painter, it's a base colour map and an ambient occlusion layer! I love the smooth look of the shading from the ambient occlusion but I hate the muddy grey over my pastel pinks and blues!

I hope the images help.

[c.pfaffenbichler]

Have you tried Blend Mode »Color«? 

[didiermazier]

You could try to use color matching (not the first one but the second at the bottom of the menu just after desaturate (excuse my french)

then you can apply colors from one layer to the second one with a few settings

Maybe it will work for your purpose…