Creating Layers; Understanding Layers - Adobe 29180155 - Photoshop Elements 4.0 Tutorial

Creating layers

Understanding layers

About the Layers panel
Adding layers
Create and name a new blank layer
Create a new layer from part of another layer
Convert the Background layer into a regular layer
Make a layer the Background layer
Understanding layers
Layers are like stacked, transparent sheets of glass on which you can paint images. You can see through the transparent areas of a layer to the
layers below. You can work on each layer independently, experimenting to create the effect you want. Each layer remains independent until you
combine (merge) the layers. The bottommost layer in the Layers panel, the Background layer, is always locked (protected), meaning you cannot
change its stacking order, blending mode, or opacity (unless you convert it into a regular layer).
Transparent areas on a layer let you see through to the layers below.
Layers are organized in the Layers panel. It's a good idea to keep this panel visible whenever you're working in Adobe® Photoshop® Elements.
With one glance, you can see the active layer (the selected layer that you are editing). You can link layers, so they move as a unit, helping you
manage layers. Because multiple layers in an image increase the file size, you can reduce the file size by merging layers that you're done editing.
The Layers panel is an important source of information as you edit photos. You can also use the Layer menu to work with layers.
Ordinary layers are pixel-based (image) layers. There are several other layer types you can use to create special effects:
Fill layers Contain a color gradient, solid color, or pattern.
Adjustment layers Enable you to fine-tune color, brightness, and saturation without making permanent changes to your image (until you flatten,
or collapse, the adjustment layer).
Type layers and shape layers Let you create vector-based text and shapes.
You can't paint on an adjustment layer, although you can paint on its mask. To paint on fill or type layers, you must first convert them into regular
image layers.
About the Layers panel
The Layers panel (Window > Layers) lists all layers in an image, from the top layer to the Background layer at the bottom. In Expert mode, if you
are working in the Custom Workspace, you can drag the Layers panel out and tab it with other panels.
The active layer, or the layer that you are working on, is highlighted for easy identification. As you work in an image, it's a good idea to check
which layer is active to make sure that the adjustments and edits you perform affect the correct layer. For example, if you choose a command and
nothing seems to happen, check to make sure that you're looking at the active layer.
Using the icons in the panel, you can accomplish many tasks—such as creating, hiding, linking, locking, and deleting layers. With some
exceptions, your changes affect only the selected, or active, layer, which is highlighted.
To the top
To the top