Adobe Photoshop Visual QuickStart Guide

22. Layer Effects and Layer Styles

In This Chapter

• Layer Effect Basics

• Copying, Moving, and Removing Layer Effects

• Understanding Opacity and Fill

• Bevel & Emboss Effects

• Drop Shadow Effects

• Stroke Effects

• Applying Layer Styles

• Creating Layer Styles

Layer effects might be the most fun and creative feature in all of Photoshop. With just a few clicks, you can create an almost infinite variety of looks, adding texture, depth, or realism to any layer content, including live text. You can simulate all kinds of materials from cotton candy to concrete. Effects can make subtle changes or radically alter the look of a layer.

Layer effects fall into three broad categories: shadows and glows, overlays, and strokes. Because they’re live, they update immediately ...