LAYERS.

That daunting Photoshop concept, which really, once you understand, is very simple. Layers are the base of Photoshop and if you understand them it will help you master the program.

Today we are only going to explore the concept of layers and in sequel blog posts we will discuss how to work with layers and easy workflow, but for now, lets just understand.

What is a layer?

Basically layers are images stacked on top of one another.

I like to think of layers like transparency sheets. Every time you add a layer you add a sheet to the stack. Each one is a new drawing sheet, but you can see through it to the sheet below. Let me give you an example, but first notice that this is your layers palette:

 The layers palette is found in the lower right hand corner of Photoshop.

 
So what happens if I turn off one of the layers?

(I did this by clicking on the "eye" by the layer. This switches the layer on and off)

See what happened? It disappeared. It's still there, but not visible. It's like you pulled it out of the stack of transparencies and put it to the side.

You can move layers around, delete them, edit them etc, just as you would if you were drawing.

The drawing below is is kind of a side view, which if you're very visual like me, hopefully it will help you understand better.

Also some benefits to layers:

-They do not destroy the original photo

-They allow for more control over individual objects (such as movement, opacity, blend mode etc)

-You can also work with "layer masks" and even more closely edit or refine your photo or project

Hopefully that made sense! We'll get more in depth soon, but for now I hope you've grasped the concept of layers.

Good luck!
Emily