Discover how to seamlessly combine two or more images in Adobe Photoshop using layers and blend modes. This technique is perfect for creating composites, double exposures, and unique artistic effects.
Launch Photoshop and open the two images you want to blend. Each image will open in its own document tab.
Select one image and copy it (Ctrl+C or Cmd+C). Navigate to the other image's tab and paste it (Ctrl+V or Cmd+V). This will place the pasted image on a new layer above the original in the same document.
Go to the Layers panel (if it's not visible, go to Window > Layers). Click on the top layer to select it. This is the layer whose blend mode you will change.
In the Layers panel, click the dropdown menu that says Normal. Experiment with different blend modes like Screen, Multiply, Overlay, or Soft Light to see how they interact.
To refine the blend, adjust the Opacity and Fill sliders at the top of the Layers panel. Lowering the opacity makes the top layer more transparent, creating a more subtle effect.
For precise control, add a layer mask by clicking the Add layer mask icon at the bottom of the Layers panel. Select the mask, then use a soft black brush to hide parts of the top layer and a white brush to reveal them.
Pro Tips for Better Image Blending
Each blend mode interacts with light and color differently. Hover over the options in the blend mode dropdown to get a live preview of the effect before committing.
Add adjustment layers like Levels or Hue/Saturation and clip them to a specific layer to fine-tune its color and tone for a more seamless blend.
Instead of a brush, use the Gradient Tool on your layer mask to create a smooth, gradual transition between the two images.
Before you start, right-click your layers and select Convert to Smart Object. This allows you to apply filters and transformations without permanently altering the original image data.
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