Exclusion works similarly to Difference, but produces a softer, lower-contrast result. It compares the colors of the blending layer with the base layer, creating a muted version of the inverted color effect.
The Math
Exclusion is closely related to Difference, but reduces the contrast of the result. Like Difference, the blending color determines how much the base color is shifted toward its opposite.
It’s like Difference with the contrast turned down, creating similar color inversions, but with a softer and more muted result.
Core Rules of Exclusion
Black does nothing: Pure black on the blending layer leaves the base layer unchanged.
White inverts: Pure white inverts the colors of the base layer.
Lower contrast: Compared with Difference, Exclusion produces softer color shifts and less extreme contrast.
Similar colors become muted: When the colors of the two layers are similar, the result tends toward a neutral, less saturated appearance rather than the stark black produced by Difference.
When to Use It
Retro effects: Use Exclusion for experimental color grading, vintage-inspired effects, or unusual photographic treatments.
Subtle textures: Apply a texture on an Exclusion layer to introduce color variation without the extreme contrast of Difference.
Glitch and sci-fi effects: Use it for surreal or experimental color shifts, especially when combined with lower layer opacity.