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flatten to new layer – leave layers intact
Is there a way in PS CS2 to flatten all the layers in an image to a new layer but leave the original layers intact beneath the new one?
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9 Replies
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Just stick all the layers you want to flatten into a new layer set and then duplicate that – flatten it – and keep the other one as an editable backup.
If it’s a big file I’m working on I usually also save two identical PSDs, calling one ‘BACKUP’ for when I’m flattening files into mattes and faces.
…It’s very easy to accidentally save over a layered file when you’re making mattes quickly and then close it and lose the history! A couple of jobs I’ve had to do again cos of that!
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thanks Jimmy – I can do it with 3 or 4 commands but I thought there was a keyboard shortcut. It seems I am not the only one who would have a use for such a thing
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When you say 3 or 4 ‘commands’..what do you mean? I’m always trying to find quicker ways to do stuff!
off topic – have you noticed how the action & title safe guides in PS are not right? I rarely use them as I have my own file template set up for UK 16:9 broadcast…but I was doing a non-broadcast job yesterday and was using the title safe preset on a DV PAL widescreen new document (with guides) and noticed the vertical title safe is WELL within the actual legal safe. Bit boring I know, but if it’s something you need, it’s good to know!
*AE 5.5 Pro – *PS CS1 – *Combustion 3
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Win XP Pro SP2 / Intel P4 3GHz / 2GB RAM / GeForce FX5200 / BMD DeckLink Pro / Sony BVM-20G1E / DVS SDI Clipstation -
Make new Layer…
Hold Down Option Key or Alt ey
Choose Mege Visible
Richard M. Harrington, PMP
Author: Photoshop CS for Nonlinear Editors, Understanding Adobe Photoshop, and ATS:iWork
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is that trick documented anywhere?
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Good one! I usually just flatten, but that will come in very handy… ta.
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I haven’t tried this on CS1 or CS2, but it works in Photoshop 7 (yeah, yeah, I know, I need to upgrade). Make a new layer, then Ctrl+Alt+Shift+E. That’s on a PC. I assume it’s Ctrl+Option+Shift+E or something similar on a Mac.
Mike.
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In CS2 you don’t even need to make a new layer first. Just hit CMD(CTRL)+OPT+SHFT+E and that will merge visible all on a new layer above all your other layers.
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In my books and DVDs it is…. lots like it in the book Broadcast Graphics on the Spot
You’ll also find tips in the blog PhotoshoforVideo.com and the companion podcast
Richard M. Harrington, PMP
Author: Photoshop CS for Nonlinear Editors, Understanding Adobe Photoshop, and ATS:iWork
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