# Understanding layers

Layers are like stacked, transparent sheets of glass on which you can paint images. You can see through the transparent areas of a layer to the layers below. You can work on each layer independently, experimenting to create the effect you want. Each layer remains independent until you combine (merge) the layers. The bottommost layer in the Layers palette, the Background layer, is always locked (protected), meaning you cannot change its stacking order, blending mode, or opacity (unless you convert it into a regular layer).

Transparent areas on a layer let you see through to the layers below.

Layers are organized in the Layers palette. It’s a good idea to keep this palette visible whenever you’re working in Photoshop Elements. With one glance, you can see the active layer (the selected layer that you are editing). You can link layers, so they move as a unit, helping you manage layers. Because multiple layers in an image increases the file size, you can reduce the file size by merging layers that you’re done editing. The Layers palette is an important source of information as you edit photos. You can also use the Layer menu to work with layers.

Ordinary layers are pixel-based (image) layers. There are several other layer types you can use to create special effects:

Fill layers
  Contain a color gradient, solid color, or pattern.
Adjustment layers
  Enable you to fine-tune color, brightness, and saturation without making permanent changes to your image (until you flatten, or collapse, the adjustment layer).
Type layers and shape layers
  Let you create vector-based text and shapes.

  You can’t paint on an adjustment layer, although you can paint on its mask. To paint on fill or type layers, you first convert them into regular image layers.

Related Information

- About adjustment and fill layers
- About layer clipping groups
- Lock or unlock a layer
- About opacity and blending options in layers

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