This tutorial shows you the best way to merge layers in Photoshop by merging them as editable smart objects, and how smart objects make it easy to work with merged layers non-destructively.
We start by learning the secret trick for merging layers onto a new layer above them (1:08). Then we look at the reasons why merging layers onto a new layer isn't the best way to work (2:34). From there, we learn why merging layers as smart objects is a better choice (3:12) and how to merge multiple layers as a smart object (3:45). We finish off the video by learning how to edit your merged layers inside the smart object (4:16) and how to apply sharpening and other effects to your smart object as editable smart filters (5:16).
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Created by Steve Patterson, Photoshop Essentials offers Adobe Photoshop tutorials designed with beginners in mind, with easy to follow, step by step instructions that make learning Photoshop easy! Subscribe to our channel for our latest Photoshop videos, and check out our website for hundreds of written Photoshop tutorials!