URGENT UPDATE: Users of Adobe Photoshop are being urged to pay close attention to subtle symbols in their document tabs that could signal critical issues affecting color accuracy and workflow. A new video from expert Dewis reveals how ignoring these tiny yet significant marks can lead to major editing headaches, delays, and potential rework.
Latest insights show that many users overlook the asterisk that appears after a filename in the tab. This symbol indicates that the current view does not match the saved file, often triggered by seemingly minor adjustments like toggling a layer’s visibility. If you’ve ever closed the wrong file or faced a crash, this small indicator could have served as an early warning.
The video also uncovers a more complex issue involving color management. When an asterisk appears inside the brackets near the file’s details, it signals a discrepancy between the document’s embedded profile and Photoshop’s working color space. Dewis discusses common color profiles such as sRGB and Adobe RGB (1998), emphasizing how these differences can complicate the editing process, especially when combining elements from various sources.
Additionally, the video addresses a frequent question among photographers: why a photo may look drastically different in Adobe Lightroom compared to Photoshop. The answer often lies in the color space each application assumes, not necessarily a malfunction of your display.
Another critical symbol to watch for is the hash mark inside the brackets, indicating the file is untagged RGB. This means Photoshop lacks the necessary embedded profile to interpret the image correctly. Such scenarios frequently arise with screenshots, web images, and older files stripped of metadata. If your work involves brand consistency or printing, this symbol is a crucial indicator that demands immediate attention.
Dewis outlines a straightforward method to resolve these issues within Photoshop, emphasizing that understanding which destination profile to choose is essential for maintaining color integrity. The video serves as a reminder that these symbols are not mere errors but status indicators that require intentional responses rather than habitual actions.
For those frequently mixing files from clients, stock sites, and different cameras, monitoring these symbols can provide a quick diagnostic tool to prevent costly mistakes. The segment effectively arms users with the knowledge to stop guessing and make informed decisions about when to take action for consistency.
Check out the full video above for essential tips from Dewis and gain control over your Photoshop workflow. As digital editing continues to evolve, staying informed about these crucial symbols could save you time and enhance your creative output.
