Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
ChAPteR 8
Working with
Layers and Masks
Layers and masks are perhaps the most important features in Photoshop.
Amazingly, they weren't invented until Photoshop 3.0, circa 1994, which
happened to be when I started using the program. What did people do before
layers and masks? Not a lot, I'd wager. In this chapter, you'll learn the essen-
tials of layers and masks, which you must understand to get the most out of
Photoshop.
Understanding layers
Managing layers
Blendinglayers
Using masks
Understanding Layers
Using layers is a breakthrough concept that greatly facilitates creativity. Layers
allow you to split an image into parts that can be repositioned, protected,
managed, and/or blended together in a variety of ways. Layers are at the core
of Photoshop's functionality. Figure 8.1 illustrates the concept of layers as
a series of stacked translucent sheets. In fact, the concept comes from the
traditional practice of drawing on multiple layers of tracing paper that are
stacked up to form a composition.
Certification
Objective
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