Topic: Photoshop noob help

[it-goes-to-eleven]

Photoshop noob here...

I created a pano using the auto-merge function (very cool!) and now I'd like to apply some effects/fixes (USM).  But when I apply USM, nothing happens to my image.  I have tried to collapse the layers down but apparently haven't done it right or am missing a step.

I also have some scans that have the same problem.

Can someone give me the basic steps needed to go from the multi-layer to an image you can do effects on?  Thanks!

[phanophish]

I believe any effects and filters are applied to a layer, so if you have merged and flattened then you should be a single layer.  The other possibility is I know some effects can't be preformed on high bit depth files so you might make sure you are in the correct bit depth for your color settings.  I seem to remember the pano function resulting in a high dynamic range image that could be 16+ bit depth for color. 

[Frank in JC]

Photoshop will actually grey-out the unavailable filters in 16-bit/ch mode.  The unsharp mask filter should work.  As far as I know, photomerge is exclusively 8-bit/ch anyway.

It shouldn't be necessary, but if you want to completely flatten an image, the command is Layer > Flatten Image.  Also, make sure you either have nothing selected, or the entire image selected.  If you accidentally marquee a tiny selection, you may not realize that the filter is only working on that one small area.

If you can't figure it out, maybe post a screen shot showing the layer palette. 

[it-goes-to-eleven]

Thanks for the tips!  Made some progress.  Seemed to be a combo of bit depth (16 on the scans) and maybe selection issues.

[stirinthesauce]

While we are on photoshop, I have a question which I can't remember the answer for.  A while back I researched HDR imaging and how to in photoshop.  I found the answer and the technique/s for getting the images.  The problem was I had PS 6 which you couldn't do that in.  Well, I now have PS cs3 v10, but I've forgotten the process.  Any quick help?  Fall leave season is in full bloom and I want to spend Sunday on getting some dynamic photos.

[phanophish]

While we are on photoshop, I have a question which I can't remember the answer for.  A while back I researched HDR imaging and how to in photoshop.  I found the answer and the technique/s for getting the images.  The problem was I had PS 6 which you couldn't do that in.  Well, I now have PS cs3 v10, but I've forgotten the process.  Any quick help?  Fall leave season is in full bloom and I want to spend Sunday on getting some dynamic photos.

http://www.photoshopsupport.com/photoshop-cs3/hdr-high-dynamic-range/index.html

I've also heard good things about another application on the PPS podcast.  I don't remember the software but the podcast is worth checking out...

http://www.prophotoshow.net/blog/category/high-dynamic-range-photography/

[stirinthesauce]

While we are on photoshop, I have a question which I can't remember the answer for.  A while back I researched HDR imaging and how to in photoshop.  I found the answer and the technique/s for getting the images.  The problem was I had PS 6 which you couldn't do that in.  Well, I now have PS cs3 v10, but I've forgotten the process.  Any quick help?  Fall leave season is in full bloom and I want to spend Sunday on getting some dynamic photos.

http://www.photoshopsupport.com/photoshop-cs3/hdr-high-dynamic-range/index.html

I've also heard good things about another application on the PPS podcast.  I don't remember the software but the podcast is worth checking out...

http://www.prophotoshow.net/blog/category/high-dynamic-range-photography/

ahhhh, thank you sir!  +t