Photoshop: Getting to Know Layers Computer Information Technology Section 7-5

Objectives The student will:  Understand and use layers  Use Layer masks  Use Marquee tools to create shapes

Layers Layers are like clear pieces of film each containing it’s own image  Layers can be stacked on top of each other  Each layer is independent and can have it’s contents and opacity changed  Layers can be reordered  Blending modes can be changed to create interesting overlays

Creating a New Blank File So far we have edited existing images, but sometimes you want to build a file from scratch Choose File>New

New Layer Dialog Box Size in either inches or pixels Resolution (72 is good for viewing on PC) Color Mode – RGB is best Background – White, a color or transparent

Adding Shapes Use the Shape Marquee tool to add a shape to the image

Naming a Layer Sometimes it’s easier if layers are given names  Double click on a layer name to edit the name

Using Masks in Layers Using a layer mask allows for better blending and more realistic compositions Mask allow special effects to be added  Gradients, etc

Adding a Shadow Holding the ALT key when moving a layer will make a copy of the layer Change Color Add a Gaussian Blur to make the shadow more realistic (Filter>Blur>Gaussian Blur)

Rest of Today 1. Create a new file 800x600 pixels with a white background. 2. Add 3 shapes (different colors) to the image 3. For the images: a) Chose one and add a gradient filter b) Chose one and choose something from the filter menu. c) Chose one and create a shadow 4. Show me the results when done