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What Does It Mean to Flatten Layers in Photoshop?

Last updated on September 24, 2022 @ 11:30 am

In Photoshop, the Flatten Layers command merges all visible layers into a single background layer. This is useful for reducing the file size of an image, or for printing an image to a printer that does not support layered files.

To flatten layers:

  1. Open the image with multiple layers that you want to flatten.
  2. Choose Layer > Flatten Image.

Note: If the image has transparent areas, flattening can result in areas of solid color where the various layers were mixed together.

To avoid color shifts, it’s best to use the Flatten Image command.

The Flatten Layers command in Photoshop is a quick way to reduce the file size of an image or prepare it for printing. When you flatten layers, all the visible layers in the image are merged into a single background layer. This can be useful when you need to save an image for web use or print it to a printer that does not support layered files.

PRO TIP: When you flatten layers in Photoshop, you are permanently merging all visible layers into a single background layer. This means that you will no longer be able to edit those layers individually. Be sure to save your file as a PSD before flattening, so that you can go back and make changes if necessary.
Drew Clemente

Drew Clemente

Devops & Sysadmin engineer. I basically build infrastructure online.