Segments

A Smart Object is a special type of layer where the pixels are protected in an envelope of sorts. When sized down, the pixels are not damaged. Deke shows you how to import images into Photoshop as a Smart Layer. In this example, he uses two portraits of a model, kept as dng files.

With a Smart Object, you can commit changes, and resize at a later time. Deke shows us this by enlarging the model's photo, whose size was matched to the canvas upon import.

You might notice a seam in the image where the two images come together. To get rid of the white background so that the images blend together, change the layer's blend mode to Multiply.

Sometimes, Smart Objects need light adjustments. Double click the Smart Object, and the image will pop up in a new window based on its file format. Since we are working in RAW, the RAW adjustment window pops up. Standard pixel-based images would open as editable pixels in a new window.

Deke shows us how to apply text effects so that the copy is dark against a white background, and light against dark backgrounds. He starts by inverting the colors, then changing the layer blend mode to Invert. This creates distasteful colors, apply more blending modes and adjust levels to achieve a desired look.