Photoshop CS5: The Missing Manual

Auto-Blending Layers

The Auto-Blend Layers command, which was designed to be used after the Auto-Align Layers command (Auto-Aligning Layers and Photomerge), helps you blend images for a panorama or collage, or combine multiple exposures of the same image to create an extended depth of field (see Auto-Blending Layers) so more of an object looks like it's in focus. When you use this command, Photoshop creates complex layer masks to blend your images, saving you a lot of hard work.

Up To Speed: Shooting Panoramas

If you're taking photos specifically to make a big honkin' panorama, here are a few things to think about while you're snapping away:

• Use a tripod. A tripod or some other stabilizing surface (like your mate's shoulder) helps you take steadier shots. You don't want your panorama to be blurry, right?

• Include an overlapping element in each shot. If you're taking three shots, make sure you include some of what's in the first shot in the second, and some of the second shot in the third. That way you have overlapping bits that Photoshop can use to align your images.

• Keep the lighting (exposure) consistent. Though Photomerge is pretty darn good at blending images, you're going to notice if you took one of your shots in the shade and the other in direct sunlight. For the best results, keep your lighting constant by exposing for the brightest portion of the image manually (even if it means consulting your camera's manual).

• Make sure the angles are the same. Photoshop has one heck of a time ...