Using Layers for Non-Destructive Editing
Last updated October 2026 · 6-minute read
Non-destructive editing means making changes that can be undone or modified at any point — without degrading the original image. Layers are the foundation of this workflow in PhotoCraft.
The layer stack
Every element in a PhotoCraft document sits on its own layer. The layer stack in the Layers panel shows them from top to bottom — layers at the top appear in front of layers below. Reorder them by dragging.
Pixel layers vs. adjustment layers
A pixel layer holds image data — a photograph, a painted stroke, a placed graphic. An adjustment layer holds a colour or tone adjustment (curves, levels, hue/saturation) that affects every layer below it in the stack without changing their pixels. You can re-open and re-edit an adjustment layer's settings at any time.
Layer masks
A layer mask is a greyscale channel attached to a layer that controls which parts of that layer are visible. White = fully visible, black = fully hidden, grey = partially visible. Paint on the mask with a brush to hide or reveal areas without deleting pixels.
Blend modes
Each layer has a blend mode that controls how its pixels interact with the layers below. Multiply darkens, Screen lightens, Overlay increases contrast. Experiment: hold Shift and press + or – while a layer is selected to cycle through blend modes quickly.
Layer groups
Select multiple layers (Shift-click) and press Ctrl+G (Cmd+G) to put them in a group. Groups can have their own blend mode, opacity, and mask. Collapsing a group in the panel keeps the stack tidy on complex documents.
Clipping masks
Alt-click (Option-click) the border between two layers in the panel to create a clipping mask — the upper layer's visible area is constrained to the shape of the layer directly below it. Useful for applying a texture only to a specific shape, or an adjustment only to one layer.
Open the editor and try it
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