Adobe Photoshop Layers: Understanding, Creating, and Using Layers

Study Notes

Adobe Photoshop Layers

What Are Layers?

In digital image editing software like Adobe Photoshop, a layer is a stackable framework containing individual picture elements, such as images, text, shapes, and other data. Layering allows you to manipulate each element independently and combine them into a final composition. Each layer has its own set of attributes, such as blending mode, opacity, and fill level. When you create a new layer in Photoshop, it appears above all existing layers by default.

Creating New Layers

To create a new layer in Photoshop, follow these steps:

Open your image in Photoshop.
If you have opened any files, click on one of them to activate it.
Click on the 'New Layer' icon located just below the Layer Palette toolbar (the rightmost icon). A dialog box will appear where you can name the new layer.
After clicking OK, a new blank layer will show up above your active layer.

Layer Properties

Each layer in Photoshop has properties associated with it, which determine how it responds to the actions performed on other layers within the document. These properties include:

Opacity: The transparency of the layer from opaque (100%) to transparent (0%). This can also apply to masks.
Fill Opacity: Controls the density of the pixel colors of the layer. Fill Opacity affects only the color information, leaving brightness and contrast unchanged.
Layer Mask: An adjustment layer mask lets you control the effect of a layer without changing its original image data.
Blend Modes: Determine the behavior of different layers when they're combined together. This includes Normal, Multiply, Overlay, Soft Light, Hard Light, Dissolve, Exclusion, Hue, Saturation, Color, Luminosity, and others.

Using Layers for Compositing

Layers are essential for compositing multiple images into a single image, seamlessly combining various elements. Here's how you can do it:

Import your images using File > Import > Open Images...
Make sure they're aligned properly and sized correctly using Edit > Auto-Align Layers or Image > Canvas Size, if needed.
Drag and drop your images onto the canvas in the order you want them to appear. They will become separate layers.
Select the top layer and use the Move Tool (V) to reposition it as desired. If necessary, resize or rotate the layer to fit perfectly.
Repeat this process for every layer until you achieve the composite you want.

Remember, the key to successful compositing lies in proper planning and execution. Start by visualizing what you hope to achieve with your composite before starting the actual editing process. This will help ensure that you get the results you desire.

Description

Learn about layers in Adobe Photoshop, including what they are, how to create new layers, layer properties like opacity and blend modes, and using layers for compositing multiple images. Layering in Photoshop allows for independent manipulation of picture elements and seamless integration of different elements into a final composition.