Layer types for beginners and basic control
Jul 21, 2022 20:41:24 #
There are many type of layers.
When you start learning PS CC limit yourself to basic layers
Content (Pixel) layers of any origin:
These layers are all opaque. Anything showing there will completely cover the layers below.
Adjustment layers:
While not opaque, an adjustment layer influences everything that is visible.
Since all the layers are opaque or influence the layers below globally, there is a strong need to control them.
Controlling where and how a layer is applied.
Where is determined by using masking.
► A mask is simply a pixel layer that acts as a filter that influence the layer it is attached to.
► White shows, Black hides, and gray is anywhere in the middle.
► Masks also control how much of the layer influences the layers below using the optional mask transparency.
How is a layer is applied is slightly more difficult.
► Each layer has a blend mode, This addresses the layer interaction with the layer below based on light.
► The only possible way to learn how to use the blend mode is to experiment.
A layer influence can be limited to a single layer or a group of layers.
► While this is considered more advanced, a layer can be made to influence only the layer below it by using layer linking.
► Using the Blend if (layer style option). This is equivalent to masking with one major difference. The 'Blend if' method uses the current layer and layer immediately below to determine where to apply the layer. Beside the gray 'blend if' layer style has many advanced options including those offered by default in a basic layer options (opacity, blend mode)
► Place the layer inside a group of existing layers, on top.
Please comment, correct if inaccurate, and do not hesitate to point out my shortcomings in English.
When you start learning PS CC limit yourself to basic layers
Content (Pixel) layers of any origin:
These layers are all opaque. Anything showing there will completely cover the layers below.
Adjustment layers:
While not opaque, an adjustment layer influences everything that is visible.
Since all the layers are opaque or influence the layers below globally, there is a strong need to control them.
Controlling where and how a layer is applied.
Where is determined by using masking.
► A mask is simply a pixel layer that acts as a filter that influence the layer it is attached to.
► White shows, Black hides, and gray is anywhere in the middle.
► Masks also control how much of the layer influences the layers below using the optional mask transparency.
How is a layer is applied is slightly more difficult.
► Each layer has a blend mode, This addresses the layer interaction with the layer below based on light.
► The only possible way to learn how to use the blend mode is to experiment.
A layer influence can be limited to a single layer or a group of layers.
► While this is considered more advanced, a layer can be made to influence only the layer below it by using layer linking.
► Using the Blend if (layer style option). This is equivalent to masking with one major difference. The 'Blend if' method uses the current layer and layer immediately below to determine where to apply the layer. Beside the gray 'blend if' layer style has many advanced options including those offered by default in a basic layer options (opacity, blend mode)
► Place the layer inside a group of existing layers, on top.
Please comment, correct if inaccurate, and do not hesitate to point out my shortcomings in English.
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