Welcome to our Photoshop photography section.

Understanding Layers with Photoshop.

If you intend to spend time editing images in Photoshop you should become aware of how layers work.

About Layers.

Layers in Photoshop are important for anyone editing.  A layer is simply one image stacked on top of another. You can have several layers stacked upon each other. The Layers Palette sustains a precise history of all your editing,  so you don’t have to remember all the changes you made.

Using layers may sound complex, but it is straight forward.



Why use layers.

Layers allow you to have more control over your image editing and they will not destroy your original photo. Images can be easily blended together . You can change previously edited areas that will save you time.

Creating a New Layer.

To create a new layer go to Layers and select New. This will open a blank transparent layer. This is ideal for adding text or creating a border. Rename the new layer. If this layer is for text press the T symbol in the tool bar to bring up the text tool. It will automatically put your text on a new text layer.

If you want to edit the image go to Layers and select New Adjustment Layers. This will create a transparent layer where you can make direct changes to your image without affecting your original photograph. On the new adjustment layer you can make any adjustments needed to your image. Until you combine or merge the layers, each layer remains independent.

Using  layers.

Layers are controlled through the Layers palette in Photoshop. In this palette, you can see each layer along with a thumbnail showing the contents of the layer.

Blending layers: Layers can be blended together through the blending mode. A blending mode is the way layer pixels blend with the layers beneath it.

Duplicate Layer: To duplicate a layer , drag it to the New Layer button.

Stacking order: To change the layer stacking order, click a layer and move it up or down in the Layers palette.

To hide a layer, click once on the eye icon in the layer palette.  The eye will disappear and the layer will become invisible. To show the layer again, re-click on the eye icon. The layer will reappear.

Layers in Photoshop should be used if you are making many changes to your image. It is pretty simple to use once you get used to it and can save you a great deal of time.



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