So all of us Photoshop users out there strive to become the best that we can be. However something usually gets lost in the translation from Photoshop to actual productivity. Most of us have problems when we encounter another persons Photoshop file when we are in a work environment. The layers panel is jumbled, messy and really hard to figure out what they did to get specific effects. When quick changes are needed and the originator of the file is not available this can lead to production loss for the company and in general gives graphic artists a bad name. It’s akin to the computer programmers that keep their code cryptic in order to keep job security. Essentially it drives them right out of a job due to productions failures. There is really only one solution to this; Non-Destructive Layering techniques. Coupled with notes these techniques can enable quick turnaround time and create a better overall work environment. What are these techniques? Lets look into a few of them.
Duplicating the original layer:
One of the most overlooked Non-Destructive techniques. Simply duplicate the background or originating layer and set it to non visibility. Also locking the layer enables you to preserve the original image for duplication as well as a reference.
Naming your layers:
Naming your layers is often overlooks for speed. This leads to poor choices and slower design speed. building a cohesive naming structure as well as using adobe’s menu coloring system allows for a clear and easy way to convey what you are trying to accomplish.
50% grey layer:
the 50% grey layer allows for application of texture without the use of a layermask. Its simple and can speed up photo editing by tremendouse amounts.
Clipping Mask:
This is the technique that I most heavily use. Holding down the alt key in between the layers and clicking allows for a clipping mask to be created. You can apply shading and texture application to that layer only. this allows for greater depth and structure and ability for crisp images to be created.
Layer Mask:
Akin to the Clipping mask this allows for a better control of environmental controls such as fog and for editing of photos.
Notes:
notes are an integral part of Photoshop now more than ever. certain techniques you cannot protect the layers from without massive amounts of work. using the notes and preserving the base layer you can tell other artists how you produced a certain effect. This allows us all to play together nicely.
All of these techniques are critical in the development of good working habits. It also leads us to taping into our greatest resource: Eachother.
