Working with layers

Layers are analogous to semi-transparent sheets of paper stacked one above the other. Each layer can be edited independently of the others and the resultant image is the composition of all these layers. Layers allow for non-destructive editing by allowing you to edit one portion of an image without disturbing the others.

Using the layers palette

The layers palette on the right hand side of the Fotografix window lists all the layers in the current image. It also displays additional information about each layer:

You can perform several actions on layers using the layers palette:

Layer properties

Each layer has two main properties, modifiable through the Layer Properties menu command:

  1. An opacity value expressed as a percentage that determines how opaque the layer is. A value of 0 corresponds to fully transparent (invisible) and a value of 100 corresponds to fully opaque; intermediate values make the layer semi-transparent.
  2. A blending mode that determines how the colours in the layer mix with those below. Modes apart from Normal can be useful in fixing photos as well as for creating special effects.

Tips for working with layers

Layers and file formats

Not all image file formats support layers. When you open an existing image whose format does not support layers, the entire image will be contained in a single layer. You can add new layers to an image, but these layers will be preserved only if saved in Fotografix format. For more information, see Supported file formats.