The Background Layer

Photoshop creates all new files with a locked Background layer, as shown in Figure 3-4.

Figure 3-4: A locked Background layer

Unlike regular layers, a locked layer cannot be changed until it is unlocked. For example, you can’t move it, apply transparency, or apply layer adjustments. Let’s unlock this layer.

Unlocking Layers

1. Open the Bing_logo.psd file if it is not already open.

2. In the Background layer, double-click on the Padlock icon. A New Layer dialog box displays.

3. Type in a new name for the layer, as shown in Figure 3-5. Type the name Background since we still consider this our background layer.

   
   Figure 3-5: Unlocking a locked layer with the New Layer dialog box

4. Press OK. You’ll now see the Padlock icon is gone.

   Note 

   You only need to rename background layers to unlock them. For all other layers, simply highlight the layer you wish to lock (or unlock) and click the Lock All icon (from the Layer Lock options).

   Tip 

   The Lock All option is handy, especially if you’re creating images for clients. You can provide them with your final images with all layers locked. That way, if they want to change your work, they’ll need to unlock the layer first. This will help prevent editing of your completed images by others.