
Adobe / Strategic vision, User research, Product design, Prototyping / 2020
Introduction
This case study details the design process of a sky replacement feature for Photoshop, aimed at helping outdoor photographers with beginner to intermediate skill levels.

Problem & Target Customer
The problem we aimed to solve was the complexity of replacing skies in photos using Photoshop, a common issue faced by outdoor photographers.
Customer Interviews & Research
- Conducted customer interviews and attended conferences to gather insights on customer workflows, challenges, and preferences.
- Identified customer goals, sources of new skies, and reasons for sky replacement.



Design Process
- Iterated on designs and prototypes based on customer feedback.
- Explored various interface and interaction options to improve user experience.



0:00
/


Challenges & Constraints
- Worked with AI/ML researchers and engineers to improve sky detection and color matching.
- Ensured output was re-editable and allowed for result refinement.
Solution & Features
- Simplified sky replacement process by reducing steps from 4 to 1.
- Provided real-time preview of different sky options.
- Offered built-in sky presets and an additional library for download.



Results & Impact
- Significantly reduced time spent enhancing skies in photos.
- Removed the need for users to watch tutorials on YouTube.
- Enabled users to focus on creativity rather than technicalities.
Press
Photoshop’s sky replacement tool makes it easier to fake a perfect sunset
Goodbye to apocalyptic skies with just a few clicks.
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/21899081/adobe_photoshop_sky_replacement.gif)
Photoshop’s Sky Replacement Makes Photography Something It’s Not
Let me ask you a question. Is this photo real or fake? This might be a difficult question because the answer depends on what you define as real or fake.

Tweets
Sky replacement tool in Photoshop changing the game🔥
— Brandon Woelfel (@Brandonwoelfel) October 30, 2020
Before & After pic.twitter.com/zSuiSgcQOi
Sky replacement on @Photoshop has to be one of the most legendary features to ever exist. Here’s a few examples! pic.twitter.com/exv31Oh1GW
— Lalithmalhaar Gudi (@lalithmalhaar) August 28, 2022
yooooo the new sky replacement feature on photoshop is insaaaane 🤯 #AdobeMAX pic.twitter.com/fYuQZyzywq
— 🍪 (@cookienimm) October 20, 2020
Comments ()