Your Photoshop document is only as strong as its weakest, unorganized, layer 23. It may seem like the results on the page are more important and timely than your layers palette, but you’re only fooling yourself. Mismanaging layers, by refusing to label or sort, will in the end can cost you or a loved one (or co-worker, or client) valuable time and energy.
Think of the layers palette as the blueprint of your home. It should be clear by looking at the palette what will be present on your page. You don’t need long, detailed descriptions of each layer. A short title, even an abbreviation (if it is understood by all parties), works fine. This may seem like a huge time drain at first, but trust that it’s the right thing to do. Once you get used to labeling layers, you’ll find it’s more than good manners. The process helps you keep track of your work, and streamlines the whole project.
Now that you’ve mastered labeling the layers (one of the more challenging aspects of Photoshop), what else can you do to improve your workflow? Below are some shortcuts to speed up the design process:
1) Use your cursor (up/down arrow) keys
This is an easy way to avoid clicking the mouse incessantly to change values
2) Hide layers
Click the alt key, while clicking the eye icon next to the layer you want to remain visible. All other layers will hide.
3) Layer Selection
Press the command key while clicking on the thumbnail image of the layer. A selection of the layer will load.
4) Toggle Between Blend Modes
On a Mac hold down shift and use the + and – buttons to switch through blend modes
5) Size of your Work Area
Click the Tab key to hide palettes. Click again to make them return.
Use the F key to toggle through different screen views.
Visit http://blog.spoongraphics.co.uk/articles/20-handy-photoshop-tips-for-a-faster-workflow for more useful tips.
The post Photoshop Workflow appeared first on Clikzy Creative.