Using Help
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295
Adobe Photoshop Help
Using Layers
Using Help
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Contents
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Index
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295
Flattening all layers
In a flattened image, all visible layers are merged into the background, which greatly
reduces the file size. Flattening an image discards all hidden layers and fills the remaining
transparent areas with white. In most cases, you won’t want to flatten a file until you have
finished editing the individual layers.
Note:
Converting an image between some color modes flattens the file. Be sure to save a
copy of your file that includes all layers if you want to edit the original image after the
conversion.
To flatten an image:
1
Make sure that all the layers you want to keep are visible.
2
Choose Layer > Flatten Image, or choose Flatten Image from the Layers palette menu.
Tracking file size
File size depends on the pixel dimensions of an image and the number of layers contained
in the image. Images with more pixels may produce more detail when printed, but they
require more disk space to store and may be slower to edit and print. You should keep
track of your file sizes to make sure the files are not becoming too large for your purposes.
If the file is becoming too large, reduce the number of layers in the image or change the
image size.
You can view file size information for an image at the bottom of the application window
(Windows) or document window (Mac OS). For more information, see
“Displaying file and
image information” on page 48
.
Setting opacity and blending options
A layer’s opacity and blending options determine how its pixels interact with pixels on
other layers.
Setting layer opacity
A layer’s opacity determines to what degree it obscures or reveals the layer beneath it.
A layer with 1% opacity appears nearly transparent, while one with 100% opacity appears
completely opaque.
To specify opacity for a layer or layer set:
1
Select a layer or layer set in the Layers palette.
Note:
You cannot change the opacity of a background layer or a locked layer.
2
Do one of the following:
•
In the Layers palette, enter a value in the Opacity text box or drag the Opacity pop-up
slider.
•
(Photoshop) Double-click a layer thumbnail, choose Layer > Layer Style > Blending
Options, or choose Blending Options from the Layers palette menu. Enter a value in the
Opacity text box or drag the Opacity pop-up slider.
Note:
To view blending options for a text layer in Photoshop, choose Layer > Layer Style >
Blending Options, or choose Blending Options from the Layers palette menu.