How do you make a selection layer in Photoshop?
In Photoshop, the term "selection layer" isn't a standard feature. Instead, you typically create a new layer from a selected area within an existing layer. This process effectively isolates the selected content onto its own layer, allowing you to edit or manipulate it independently.
Based on the information provided in "Creating layered composition", here is the straightforward method:
Creating a New Layer from a Selection
This technique involves making a selection on your current layer and then transferring that selected content to a brand new layer.
Here are the steps:
- Make a Selection:
- Start by choosing any of the standard Photoshop selection tools.
- Common options include the Magic Wand Tool, Lasso Tools (Lasso, Polygonal Lasso, Magnetic Lasso), or Marquee Tools (Rectangular Marquee, Elliptical Marquee).
- Use your chosen tool to define the area you want to turn into a new layer.
- Access Layer Options:
- Once your selection is active (you'll see the "marching ants" outline), hover your cursor directly over the selected area.
- Right-click on the selected area.
- Choose Layer Creation Method:
- From the context menu that appears, navigate to the "Layer via..." options.
- Select either "Layer via Cut" or "Layer via Copy".
Layer via Cut vs. Layer via Copy
Understanding the difference is key:
- Layer via Copy: This command creates a new layer containing a copy of the selected pixels. The original pixels remain in place on the layer you selected them from. This is useful when you want to duplicate an element.
- Layer via Cut: This command creates a new layer containing the selected pixels, but it removes those pixels from the original layer. This is useful when you want to move an element onto its own layer while deleting it from its original location.
After choosing either option, a new layer will appear in your Layers panel containing only the content that was within your selection.
This method is a fundamental part of building complex layered compositions in Photoshop, allowing for precise editing and organization of different image elements.
