Learn how to master layers and masking in Photoshop with this step-by-step course taught by Nicole Young (Nicolesy), a professional photographer and educator known for her straightforward, approachable teaching style. Nicole has a knack for making complex topics easy to understand, guiding you through everything from basic to advanced techniques with real-life examples and practice files. Perfect for photographers, designers, and digital artists of all skill levels! *You'll discover:* - *Layers 101:* Basics of creating, editing, & blending layers - *Non-Destructive Edits:* Techniques to preserve your original images - *Masking Mastery:* Learn to apply selective adjustments - *Channels & Selections:* Get a jump-start on creating selections - *Custom Workspaces:* How to create and save your own workspace for efficient editing - ... and more! *Course Chapters:* - *Chapter 01: Introduction:* Overview of the course and what you’ll learn (00:00:41) - *Chapter 02: Types of Layers:* Explore different types of layers like pixel, shape, and text (00:17:42) - *Chapter 03: Adjustment Layers:* How to use adjustment layers for non-destructive editing (00:47:17) - *Chapter 04: Blend Modes:* Learn how to combine layers creatively using blend modes (01:32:11) - *Chapter 05: Managing Layers:* Organizing and managing layers in complex documents (01:53:05) - *Chapter 06: Introduction to Masking:* Learn the basics of masking to enhance specific areas of your image (02:33:05) - *Chapter 07: Selections and Channels:* Create complex selections for precise editing (03:00:05) - *Chapter 08: Advanced Masking Tips & Techniques:* Advanced methods for detailed masking (04:10:18) - *Chapter 09: Hands-on Projects:* Practical projects to apply everything you've learned (04:26:16) The project files for the hands-on projects in Chapter 09 are free to download here: This course was created using Adobe Photoshop 2022, but don’t worry—these techniques work in newer versions, so you can still follow along easily! 📖 LESSONS: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:41 - : What are Layers? 00:03:10 - : The Benefits of Using Layers 00:09:43 - : Setting Up the Photoshop Workspace 00:17:42 - Chapter 2: Types of Layers ( : The Background Layer) 00:20:44 - : Pixel Layers 00:24:35 - : Shape and Vector Layers 00:30:13 - : Adjustment Layers 00:34:22 - : Color Fill Layers 00:37:18 - : Type (text) Layers 00:41:35 - : Smart Objects 00:47:17 - Chapter 3: Adjustment Layers ( : Intro to Adjustment Layers) 00:52:27 - : Brightness & Contrast Layers 00:55:26 - : Curves 01:03:21 - : Vibrance 01:08:07 - : HSL (Hue, Saturation, Lightness) 01:13:09 - : Color Balance 01:17:43 - : Black & White 01:22:09 - : Photo Filter 01:24:38 - : Color Lookup 01:27:12 - : Gradient Map 01:32:11 - Chapter 4: Blend Modes ( : Intro to Bend Modes) 01:35:50 - : Overlay and Soft Light Blend Modes 01:40:08 - : Multiply & Screen Blend Modes 01:45:01 - : Color & Luminosity Blend Modes 01:53:05 - Chapter 5: Managing Layers ( : Creating New Layers) 01:58:53 - : Rearranging Layers 02:02:09 - : Grouping Layers 02:06:35 - : Duplicating Layers 02:09:47 - : Renaming Layers 02:12:46 - : Merging Layers 02:19:56 - : Transforming Layers 02:27:22 - : Layer Visibility 02:33:05 - Chapter 6: Masking ( : What is Masking?) 02:40:03 - : Creating a Mask 02:44:30 - : Editing a Mask 02:52:48 - : Editing a Mask with the Gradient Tool 02:54:54 - : Editing Masks with the Brush Tool 03:00:05 - Chapter 7: Selections & Channels ( : Selections & Masks Overview) 03:04:10 - : Selection Tools 03:14:18 - : Creating a Mask from a Selection 03:20:17 - : Automatic Selections Overview 03:23:26 - : Color Range Selections 03:30:39 - : Focus Area Selections 03:33:35 - : Select Subject 03:35:53 - : Select Sky 03:37:59 - : Channels 03:44:54 - : Refining Masks 04:00:19 - : Masking Hair 04:10:18 - Chapter 8: Advanced Techniques ( : Previewing Masks) 04:13:19 - : Duplicating Masks 04:16:03 - : Masking Groups 04:18:13 - : Linked Masks 04:20:51 - : Clipping Masks 04:26:16 - : Hands-On Project — Bumblebee 04:37:52 - : Hands-On Project — Baby with Texture 04:48:30 - : Hands-On Project — Luminosity Masking with Channels 05:02:09 - : Hands-On Project — Luminosity Masking with Color Range 05:13:12 - : Hands-On Project — Stylized Portrait 05:23:19 - : Hands-On Project — Bridge in a Frame 05:30:15 - : Hands-On Project — Replacing a Background 05:55:27 - : Hands-On Project — Creating a Collage 06:07:01 - Conclusion Free presets, textures, and training: ► CREDITS: ➡︎ by Nicole S. Young ➡︎ Music by Jamey Cassell / Audiio: