Media Arts - Photoshop Basics

What is a Layer in Photoshop?

• Think of layers like a sandwich for you to create an art work with.

• Think of layers as transparent pieces of paper that you can add items to, that are all stacked on top of another to create a complete art work.

• Think of layers as different drawings within your art work.

To create a new layer you click the following icon at the bottom of the layer window:

• 
• 
• 

You can rename a layer by:

• Double clicking on the current layer name

• Right clicking on the layer you want to rename then click rename

To delete a layer you:

• Right click on the layer you want to delete then click delete

• Click and drag the layer into the bin at the bottom right of the layers panel

• Left click the layer and then press the delete key on your keyboard

• All of the above

You can change the order of the layers by:

• Right clicking the layer you want to move then click either move up or down

• Dragging and dropping the layer into the order you desire

• Double clicking on the layer you want to move

You can change the transparency of a layer using the

• Fill percentage

• Opacity percentage

• Adjustment tool

To hide a layer on your canvas, you:

• Click the 'eye' icon

• Right click and press "go invisible"

The keyboard shortcut for the Brush tool is

• B

• C

• A

The keyboard shortcut for the eraser is

• R

• F

• E

The keyboard shortcut for the Quick selection/magic wand tool is:

• W

• B

• E