Photoshop tip, make a layer.
by Bob on Jan.18, 2012, under Photoshop
Have you ever been working on a file and piled up loads of layers, each layer overlapping the others and contributing something to the end result. A file this complex can be difficult to do something to. Something as simple as cloning an area because that area may be built from several overlapping layers can be a nightmare. Trying to run a filter, warp, or distort your image can prove frustrating or impossible. Don’t run away screaming, there is an answer! There is a shortcut which will create an empty layer then stamp ALL of your visible layers on to that new layer. Here’s what to do….
1. Make sure all the layers you want included are turned on and the layers you don’t want included are turned off. That’s the little eyeball thingy to the left of a layer. If you see the eyeball the layer is on, if you do not see the eyeball the layer is off, see.
2. Next, choose a layer by clicking on it in your layers palate. For me it is almost always the top layer. Photoshop will create the new layer directly above the layer you choose.
3. Now for the magic! Click these four buttons at the same time….
(shift)+(alt)+(command)+(E)
4. You now have a flattened copy of ALL your visible layers which is easily editable, and all of the other layers have been left in tact.
