Layer Blending Modes, Layer Styles, Filters and Smart Filters

1. Layer Blending Modes

Blending options in Photoshop allow you to combine layers in various ways to create different effects.

• Blending modes are found in the Layers panel under the dropdown list labeled "Normal";
• What you need to know is that the Darken group makes the white color invisible, and the Lighten group makes the color black invisible;
• The Overlay group blends colors of two images;
• The Difference group creates stylized effects;
• The last Color group affects the hue, saturation, and overall color; You can always adjust opacity to fine-tune the effect and use layer masks to selectively apply blending effects.

Blending modes offer a fun and creative way to combine images. Experiment with different blending modes and opacities for creative results!

2. Layer Styles

Common Layer Styles Options include Bevel and Emboss that adds a beveled edge to the layer:

• Stroke: adds an outline around the layer;
• Inner Shadow: adds a shadow inside the layer/text;
• Drop Shadow: adds a shadow outside the layer with customizable opacity, spread (thickness), size (softness), angle, and color;
• Color Overlay: applies a solid color over the layer which sometimes helps maintain a non-destructive workflow;
• Inner Glow: adds a glow inside the layer which is more visible on darker text or objects;
• Outer Glow: adds a glow outside the layer.

Effects are previewed on the canvas and in a preview window. They also can be stacked and combined for complex styles.

Remember, layer Styles can be applied to any layer type, not just text. So, experiment with different effects to create unique and interesting designs.

3. Filters and Smart Filters

• Filters are categorized into groups such as Artistic, Brush Strokes, Distort, Sketch, Stylize, and Texture. Each filter has its own settings for customization;
• You can layer multiple filters by clicking the plus icon at the bottom of the filter window to add new filters. Then customize each filter's settings to achieve desired effects;
• Applying filters directly to a layer is destructive, meaning changes are permanent. So, convert the layer to a Smart Object for non-destructive editing, allowing you to adjust or remove filters later.