Chapter 22: Advanced Layer Techniques

Overview

Chapter 7 introduced you to layers and how important they are to the Photoshop work flow. I compared a layer to a piece of transparent glass. You learned that you can separate areas of your image onto independent layers that can be edited at any time during the imaging process. You also learned how to reshuffle layers in the stack to reposition their plane of depth in the picture, and how to link layers or create layer sets to organize your work. You changed a layer s opacity to be able to see through it. You experimented with blending modes to dramatically alter the color relationships of layers, and applied cool special effects such as drop shadows and bevels. In Chapter 10 you learned to apply Fill layers and in Chapter 16 you discovered the power of Adjustment layers.

In this chapter, I ll introduce more of Photoshop s layer capabilities and show you techniques that empower you to combine visual elements in unique and rather surprising ways.

You ll learn about:

• Creating and controlling layer masks

• Seamless compositing

• Grouping layers

• Casting shadows

• Creating multiple versions with layer comps