Adjust the gamma of an image

Gamma changes the midtones of an image and leaves pure black and pure white alone. Use it to open up shadows without blowing out the highlights.

Drag your image here

Choose image

JPG, PNG, WebP, GIF, TIFF or SVG · or paste with Ctrl+V

1.4

Above 1 the midtones get lighter, below 1 darker.

How it works

  1. Upload your image

    Drop a file into the box or choose one on your device.

  2. Adjust the settings

    The preview changes as you drag. Hold the compare button to see your original.

  3. Download the result

    As PNG, JPG or WebP, at the same resolution as your original.

Above and below 1

A gamma of 1 is your original. Above 1 makes the midtones lighter, which brings out detail in dark photos. Below 1 makes them darker, which adds depth to washed-out images. The slider runs from 0.2 to 3.

When gamma beats brightness

Brightness lifts every pixel by the same amount, so blacks turn grey and whites clip. Gamma bends the curve instead, so black stays black and white stays white, and only the tones in between move. For a dark photo with detail hiding in the shadows, try a gamma of 1.3–1.8 first. See also exposure and brightness.

Frequently asked questions

What is a good gamma value?

For a dark photo, try 1.3 to 1.8. For an image that looks washed out, try 0.7 to 0.9. Small steps make a big difference, so move the slider slowly.

Will the quality suffer?

No. The download has the same resolution as your original, unless the tool changes the size itself. Save as PNG to keep every detail, or as JPG or WebP for a smaller file.

Is my image uploaded?

No. Everything happens in your browser. Your image never leaves your device and is not stored.