I want to discuss the use of color adjustment layers as a painting tool rather than a finishing step, which changed how I think about color in digital work.

Most people use adjustment layers at the end of a painting to 'fix' the color. I now use them throughout the process as a way to explore color choices non-destructively.

The workflow: paint with relatively muted, desaturated colors in the early stages when I'm focused on value and composition. Then apply Hue/Saturation and Color Balance adjustment layers to explore different color directions while keeping the underlying painting constant.

This separates the problems of 'does the composition work' and 'does this color direction work' into two phases. The composition can be solid before I commit to the color. Changing color direction doesn't require repainting.

The limitation: adjustment layers affect the whole image unless masked. Complex scenes with different lighting conditions may need multiple adjustment layers with careful masking. This can get complicated, but it's usually less work than repainting.