This tool provides precise control over highlight and shadow color grading. By targeting tonal ranges independently, you can create cohesive cinematic looks—like classic teal-and-orange grades—without washing out the entire image. It functions as an advanced rgb split effect online, letting you dictate exactly how the shadow and highlight hues blend through the midtones.
Tonal separation
Split toning works by isolating the image into two masks based on luminance. You select a target color and saturation level for the shadows, and a separate pair for the highlights.
Keeping saturation low (15–45%) usually yields the most professional, subtle results. Warm highlights emulate sunlight or golden hour, while cool shadows add depth and separation to the darker regions.
Balance and transition
The Balance slider shifts the pivot point between the two zones. Moving it toward the shadows forces more of the image to adopt the highlight tint, and vice versa.
The Transition parameter controls the gradient between the two masks. A high transition creates a soft, natural roll-off through the midtones. A low transition sharpens the separation, which can result in a more stylized or graphic look.
Luma preservation
Adding pure color to an image inherently changes its perceived brightness. By keeping Preserve Luma enabled, the algorithm recalculates the output so the structural contrast matches the original photo.
This ensures your color grade feels like a tint rather than a harsh exposure shift. Use the global Mix slider to dial back the overall intensity of the effect if the grading feels too aggressive.