Create a custom filter

Last updated on Oct 6, 2026

Learn how to build pixel-based effects by defining kernel values in a convolution grid and adjusting Scale and Offset parameters in Adobe Photoshop on desktop.

The Custom filter evaluates each pixel by multiplying its brightness value and those of surrounding pixels according to values you enter in a 5 × 5 convolution grid. The center cell represents the pixel being evaluated, while the surrounding cells control how adjacent pixels influence the result. This mathematical approach lets you design sharpening, blurring, embossing, and edge-detection effects from scratch. Filters can be used in a variety of creative ways to transform and enhance your images. Learn more in the Filters overview, which introduces filters and their creative applications.

Custom filters work best when applied to Smart Objects, allowing you to adjust values non-destructively after the initial application.

Define kernel values and apply the filter

Select Filter > Other and then Custom to open the Custom dialog box with a 5 × 5 grid of text boxes.

Select the center text box and enter a value from –999 to +999 to set the multiplier for the pixel being evaluated.

Select each adjacent text box where you want to influence neighboring pixels and enter multiplier values. For example, entering 2 in the box immediately to the right of center multiplies that pixel's brightness by 2.

In the Scale field, enter the value by which to divide the sum of all brightness calculations.

In the Offset field, enter a value to add to the result after scaling.

Select OK to apply the custom filter to the image.

The filter processes each pixel sequentially across the entire image. Higher Scale values reduce the overall effect intensity, while Offset values shift the tonal range of the result. Experiment with different kernel patterns to achieve sharpening (positive center values with negative surrounding values), blurring (equal positive values across all cells), or edge detection (negative center with positive surrounding values).

Save and reuse custom filters

After creating a custom filter configuration, preserve it for future use by selecting Save in the Custom dialog box. Choose a descriptive filename and location. To apply a saved filter, select Filter > Other and then Custom. Then select Load and choose your saved filter file.

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