Working with Layers
Introduction
One of the fundamental things to grasp when editing images in PhotoPlus is how to work efficiently, safely and systematically with layers. Without care and attention to this detail, images can rapidly grow out of control, trying to find an element on a layer will take unnecessary extra time to complete a project.
Whether your working on a photo montage or a digital painting, it makes sense to keep your image in an organised structure. When creating the ‘Choco-late’ image, I split the various elements like face, hands and body up onto separate layers. Layers were further divided into groups (see screen shot of the layers tab right).
Effects can be added either to single elements or groups, the choice is yours, this adds to the versatility of creative image editing.
First and foremost is to ensure your original image is safely stored elsewhere and that you are only working on a backup copy.
Second, lock this copy in the background layer and only carry out adjustments on duplicated layers. This gives you a way back to the original image if you find that adjustments made yesterday really aren’t so good.
Third, make notes about what works or what you find interesting.
Remember, experiment, and… have FUN!
