How to Blend Two Images in Photoshop?

To smoothly blend two images in Photoshop, follow these steps:

Image Blending Guide

Here's a breakdown of the process, combining the steps mentioned in the reference:

Layer Setup:
- First, open both images in Photoshop.
- Make sure to place them in the same file, each on its own layer. Ensure the image you want on top is actually placed as the top layer in the layers panel.
Add a Layer Mask:
- Select the top layer in your layers panel.
- At the bottom of the layers panel, click the "Add layer mask" icon (it looks like a rectangle with a circle in the middle) to add a layer mask to the top layer.
Gradient Tool:
- Choose the Gradient Tool from the toolbar.
- In the options bar at the top, select a black to white gradient. Ensure it’s a linear gradient selected and not something else, like a radial gradient.
Applying the Gradient:
- Click and drag the gradient tool across the area where you want the two images to blend. The direction and length of your drag will determine the blending area. If you drag from right to left, the gradient and blend will run in that direction.
- The black part of the gradient will make the top layer transparent, revealing the layer beneath. The white part will keep the top layer fully visible. Gray areas will result in a semi-transparent blend.
- You can experiment with different directions and lengths to get your desired blend effect.

Step	Action	Result
1	Place images on separate layers.	Images ready to be blended.
2	Add a layer mask to the top layer.	Enables control of transparency on the top layer.
3	Select the Gradient Tool.	Ready to apply a smooth transition between the images.
4	Apply black-to-white gradient.	Smooth blending effect between layers.

If you make a mistake you can go back using CTRL+Z or CMD+Z.
You can move the gradient or change its angle after dragging, by clicking the mask layer icon and using the move tool to move the gradient around.
For more complex blends, you can add multiple layer masks or use different gradients.