Book description
Photoshop's layers are arguably the most powerful aspect of the software's user interface and are the key to successful image editing in Photoshop. Layers allow for both global and local adjustments to images and can be used to create a number of special effects. Best of all, layers allow for nondestructive editing of your original image. New Photoshop users often see layers as too complicated, and they miss out on the program's full potential.
This book will remove the confusion factor by providing an in-depth introduction to layers. Clear, step-by-step instructions and illustrations help the reader quickly master the tools that are relevant for photographers.
In this book you will learn about:
- Working with and building multiple layers
- Blending layers and which Options to use
- Using layers to enhance and retouch your images
- Creating and using layer masks
- Creating luminosity and saturation layer masks
- Using Smart Objects and Smart Filters
- Advanced layer techniques
- Time-saving shortcuts, tips, and tricks
Table of contents
- Cover Page
- Title Page
- Copyright Page
- Table of Contents
- Foreword
-
1 Using Layers to Make Global and Selective Adjustments
- 1.1 Reasons for Using Layer Techniques
- 1.2 The Photoshop Layers Concept
- 1.3 Layers Panel
- 1.4 The Layers Panel Icons
- 1.5 Changing Layer Opacity
- 1.6 Blending Modes
- 1.7 Sample Layer-Based Processing Workflow
- 1.8 Using Fill Layers
- 1.9 Understanding Different Color Models
- 1.10 Some General Thoughts on Image Optimization
- 1.11 Best Practices When Working with Layers
-
2 Editing Images Using Adjustment Layers
- 2.1 Adjustment Layer Basics
- 2.2 Adjustment Layers Overview
- 2.3 An Example of a Curves Adjustment Layer
- 2.4 Selective Color Corrections Using Hue/Saturation
- 2.5 Converting an Image to Black-and-White Using Adjustment Layers
- 2.6 The Color Splash Technique
- 2.7 Adjusting Saturation Using the Vibrance Setting
- 2.8 Optimizing Skin Tones Using Color Balance
- 2.9 Adjusting the Mood of an Image Using Photo Filters
- 2.10 Color Lookup
- 2.11 Split Toning Using a Gradient Map
- 2.12 Image Analysis Using Adjustment Layers
- 2.13 General Considerations when Working with Adjustment Layers
-
3 Working with Layer Masks
- 3.1 Making Selective Adjustments Using Layer Masks
- 3.2 Simple Masks
- 3.3 Using Masks Multiple Times
- 3.4 From a Selection to a Mask and Back
- 3.5 Selection Tools Overview
- 3.6 Making Selections Using the Magic Wand, Magnetic Lasso, and Quick Selection Tools
- 3.7 Quick Mask Mode
- 3.8 Selecting and Masking Using the Color Range Command
- 3.9 Refine Edge
- 3.10 Saving Masks
- 3.11 Selections and Channels
- 3.12 Using Channels to Optimize Images
- 3.13 Luminance Masks
- 3.14 Saturation Masks
- 3.15 Other Masking Techniques
- 3.16 Paths, Shapes, and Vector Masks
- 3.17 Tricks and Tips for Selections and Masks
- 3.18 Other Considerations When Working with Selections and Masks
-
4 Blending Modes
- 4.1 Photoshop Blending Modes
- 4.2 An Overview of the Main Blending Modes
- 4.3 Using Overlay Mode to Brighten an Image and Increase the Contrast
- 4.4 Dodging and Burning Using Layers
- 4.5 Sharpening without Altering Colors
- 4.6 Simulating a Pencil Drawing Using Divide Mode
- 4.7 Dull + Lifeless × Blending Mode = Powerful Image
- 4.8 Adding Clouds to a Landscape
- 4.9 Merging Multiple Images Using Blending Modes
- 4.10 Applying Makeup Using Color Mode
- 4.11 Adding Texture
- 4.12 Enhancing Texture Using Individual Channel Luminosity
- 4.13 General Thoughts on Blending Modes
- 5 Merging and Blending Layers
-
6 Smart Objects and Smart Filters
- 6.1 Smart Objects
- 6.2 Copying Smart Objects
- 6.3 Smart Filters
- 6.4 Sharpening Using the High Pass Smart Filter
- 6.5 Converting Smart Objects
- 6.6 Replacing Smart Objects
- 6.7 Using Smart Objects to Create Multiple Borders
- 6.8 Merging Multiple Versions of a Raw Image
- 6.9 General Information on Smart Objects and Smart Filters
- 7 Layer Styles
-
8 Organizing Layers
- 8.1 Organizing Layers
- 8.2 Naming Layers
- 8.3 Layers Panel Options
- 8.4 Layer Groups
- 8.5 Color Coding Layers
- 8.6 Limiting Layer Effects Using a Clipping Mask
- 8.7 The Layer Filter
- 8.8 Merge and Flatten Layers
- 8.9 How to Adjust Corrections without Using Layers
- 8.10 Saving Disk Space Using Data Compression
- 8.11 The Layer Context Menu
- 8.12 Rasterizing, Exporting, and Replacing Layer Content
- 8.13 A Recommended Layer Sequence
- 8.14 Tips and Tricks for Working with Layers and Masks
- 8.15 Selecting the Right File Format
- 9 Alternatives to Photoshop Layers
- 10 Sample Edits
- A Resources
- Index
Product information
- Title: Mastering Photoshop Layers
- Author(s):
- Release date: December 2013
- Publisher(s): Rocky Nook
- ISBN: 9781492001287
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