How do I invert a 2-color image?

[lynnem090791]

Hello everyone -

I'm working with Photoshop again after being away for a few years, and I'm trying to invert a simple 2-color image. It started off as a .png, but I converted it to a .bmp (I remember that part, at least!).

It seems like it used to be a relatively simple action, back "in the day," but now I can't get there.

I have Photoshop 2019.

Thanks,

~ Lynne

[Guest]

Hi

Is this what you're looking for

[lynnem090791]

Sorry, I guess I should have said Inverse.

No, I meant taking the 2 colors and switching them. I know you do that by going to Select > Inverse, but it's grayed out.

[c.pfaffenbichler]

Select > Inverse,

That inverses a Selection and is not what you describe as your goal.

Without an active Selection is is not available.

[c.pfaffenbichler]

[c.pfaffenbichler]

It started off as a .png, but I converted it to a .bmp (I remember that part, at least!).

Why?

Could you please post a screenshot with the pertinent Panels (Layers, Channels, Options Bar, …) visible?

[lynnem090791]

Screenshot:

[lynnem090791]

Better screenshot, maybe:

[c.pfaffenbichler]

I recommend you load the Red Channel (by cmd-clicking the Red Channel in the Channels Panel), inverse the Selection and create a new Solid Color Layer with the color of the background.

Then alt-click the Layer Mask icon in the Layers Panel and apply Curves (cmd-M) and use the White Point to the »object«’s color.

After that add a Solid Color Layer of the original object color below that without any Layer Mask.