Fstoppers Review the Infinite Color Panel

There is no shortage of Photoshop actions around the internet these days. Color grading images to having a unique look can be accomplished with infinite possibilities, however, Pratik Naik recently announced the Infinite Color Panel that rethinks the creative process.

Let’s face it, sometimes our creativity levels can use an assist to get ideas flowing, and as Naik says on his website, “Finding a direction is often the hardest part about color grading”. The Infinite Color Panel debuted just days ago, and it’s already creating a stir in the creative community with its intuitive and easy to use design and pleasing edits. The panel allows for users to simply hit the “create” button to randomly achieve different looks for their images, without the constant debate on which direction the image should go.

Specs

According to the website, the panel will work with any version of Adobe Creative Cloud. I’ve been testing the panel with Photoshop CC 2018 with no issues. Photoshop CS6 users will be happy to know that they can also utilize the extension, however, it’ll be a separate product versus being controlled through a panel with actions. This tool is only for Photoshop, and will not work with Lightroom or Adobe Elements.

Interface

Wanting to see how intuitive the interface actually was I skipped Naik’s video, and instead jumped right into using the panel. I don't think it could get much easier! I found the harmonize feature after I did an initial color grade on my first image, and wow is it powerful. When used, the harmonize button will generate what it thinks will compliment your base image with a triadic color scheme. The color scheme that is generated is based on the highlights in the image, which will allow for harmonious mid-tones and shadows as the panel generates the different layers. Overall I appreciate how well the panel is designed. 

What I Liked

• Easy to use

• Creative looks are easily achieved

• Ability to fine-tune the color grading the panel creates

• Great for different genres

• Go back feature allows to bounce back to a previous look you generated for the image

• Shuffle button for individual processed layers

• Intensity levels built into the panel

• You can stack looks to build even more complex color grades

What I Didn’t Like

• I’ve had a random error rear its head once, but after a quick reboot, no issues since. An error message of "something went horribly wrong" displayed after I hit "Harmonize."
• Would be great to have a save button added to the panel in a future update.

Conclusion

I appreciate Naik’s fresh take with the Infinite Color Panel, and the ability to quickly create custom color grades on my images. While other actions or Lightroom presets I’ve come across apply the same settings to each image, I love the freedom the Infinite Color Panel gives me as an artist as it applies different curves, color balance, selective color, gradient map, and color lookup that can all be individually customized or shuffled based on the look I'm aiming for. I look forward to seeing what else Naik has is in store for future updates. Head over to the website now to sign up for first access to the panel and receive a $30 off discount. The panel retails for $129.