Solarize Image
Invert only the brightest parts of a photo — pixels above the threshold become their photographic negative while darker areas stay unchanged. Free, private, and instant — processed in your browser, never uploaded.
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Drop image here
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Options
Partial-negative effect
Each channel above the threshold is inverted (255 − v) while channels below are left unchanged, creating the classic darkroom solarization look.
100% private
Your image is processed entirely in your browser using the Canvas API — nothing is ever uploaded to a server.
Free and unlimited
No signup, no watermark, no daily limit. Process as many images as you like.
How to solarize an image
Upload your image
Drag and drop or click to select a JPG, PNG, or WebP image.
Set the threshold
Drag the threshold slider to choose which brightness level triggers inversion. Lower values solarize more of the image.
Pick a format
Choose PNG to keep transparency or JPG for the smallest file size.
Download
Click download to save the solarized image to your device.
Frequently asked questions
What is the solarize effect?
Solarization inverts only the pixels above a brightness threshold, creating a partial-negative look. It was discovered in darkrooms when film was accidentally over-exposed to light during development (the Sabattier effect).
Is the solarize tool free?
Yes — completely free and unlimited. No signup, no account, no watermark, no daily limit.
Are my files uploaded to a server?
No. The effect is applied entirely in your browser on your device. Your image never leaves your computer, so it stays fully private.
How is solarize different from invert?
Invert flips every pixel to its full negative. Solarize only inverts pixels above a threshold, so the dark areas remain unchanged and you get a mix of normal and inverted tones.
Solarize another image
Drop in a new photo to apply the solarization effect — free and unlimited, no signup required.
Choose The Right Tool
Why this page exists
Use solarize to invert the bright areas of a photo above a threshold, creating a dramatic partial-negative look inspired by darkroom over-exposure.
Best for
- Psychedelic, surreal, and darkroom-inspired effects
- Artistic partial-negative color experiments
- High-contrast stylized photography
Related tools people usually need next
Invert Image
Flip an image to its photo negative
Invert the entire image instead of just the bright areas.
Threshold Image
Convert to pure black and white
Convert to pure black and white with a cutoff instead.
Image Filters
Apply photo effects and filters
Combine solarize with other photo effects in one place.