Hard Mix adds the RGB values of the blending layer to the base layer, then forces each channel to either its minimum or maximum value. The result is an extremely high-contrast, posterized effect with no smooth color transitions.
The Math
For each RGB channel, Hard Mix adds the value from the blending layer to the corresponding value from the base layer.
If the total reaches 255 or higher, the result becomes 255. If the total is below 255, the result becomes 0.
Mathier Math
The basic operation is:
Result = Base + Blend
Then the result is forced to one of two possible values:
If Base + Blend ≥ 255 → 255
If Base + Blend < 255 → 0
For example, if the Red channel of the base is 180 and the Red channel of the blend is 100:
180 + 100 = 280
That’s above 255, so the result becomes:
255
But if the base is 120 and the blend is 100:
120 + 100 = 220
That’s below 255, so the result becomes:
0
Every RGB channel goes through this same yes-or-no decision.
Core Rules of Hard Mix
Only black or white: Every RGB channel ends up at either 0 or 255, eliminating the smooth range of intermediate values.
Extreme contrast: Gradients and mid-tones are crushed into hard blocks of color.
Up to eight colors: Because each of the three RGB channels can only be either 0 or 255, the result can contain only eight possible colors: black, white, red, green, blue, cyan, magenta, and yellow.
No smooth blending: Hard Mix replaces gradual transitions with abrupt color changes, creating a distinctly posterized or graphic appearance.
When to Use It
Posterized effects: Use Hard Mix when you want an intentionally harsh, graphic look with solid blocks of color.
Experimental color effects: It can produce striking, unexpected color combinations from ordinary artwork.
Extreme contrast: Try it for stylized illustrations or special effects where subtle shading isn’t what you’re after.