Blend Modes

The way that layers interact with other layers in the stack is determined by the Blending mode of the upper layer.

By default the layer s mode is set to Normal, which causes the picture content on the upper layer to obscure the picture parts beneath, but Photoshop Elements has many other ways (modes) to control how these pixels interact.

Called Blend modes, the different options provide a variety of ways to control the mixing, blending and general interaction of the layer content.

In the following Blend mode examples the picture has two layers Top (1) and Bottom (2). In each example the Blend mode of the top layer has been changed to illustrate how the two layers blend together.

The pixels in the top layer are opaque and therefore block the view of the bottom layer. Adjusting the opacity of the top layer will make it semitransparent causing it to blend with the top layer.

Combines the top layer with the bottom using a pattern of pixels. There is no effect if the top layer is at 100% opacity. Reduce the opacity to see the effect. The example is set to 80% opacity.

Compares the color of the top and bottom layers and blends the pixels where the top layer is darker than the bottom.

Multiplies the color of the bottom layer with the top layer producing an overall darker result. There is no image change where the top layer is white.

Darkens or burns the...