Combining Image Layers

Layer opacity controls, layer blend modes, and layer masks are all important tools for graphic designers using Photoshop to create collage graphics for print materials. These types of graphics are most effective when used in brochures, advertisements, and  magazine layouts. Layer opacity and blend modes allow you to combine image layers and create special effects, while masks allow you to conceal (or reveal) specific image areas—and they work nondestructively. Layer masks really are the ultimate creative safety net, giving you the ability to try out all of your ideas without permanently altering any pixels. You can use layer masks along with brushes, gradients, filters, and filled selections. You can also use clipping masks to place images inside text characters or other shapes.