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Known Participant
February 11, 2026
Question

Layer aspect changes after opening a smart object filter

  • February 11, 2026
  • 2 replies
  • 7 views

Hi guys. I'm working on a project, but a problem arose that is driving me crazy. 

Basically, I have a smart object with some filters I duplicated several times. At first, I can change the filters parameters normally, but as I proceed adding more layers and enriching the project, the problem shows up. When I try to change a filter parameters (let's say Levels), the layer preview becomes distorted and after applying the changes the aspect changes. I don't even have to change anything, I just open the filter to modify it, I confirm and the same happens. 

I think all this is related to the Chrome filter, because when I try to change a filter applied to a smart object (let's say I just open it) that doesn't have the Chrome filter applied, the preview becomes distorted, but the layer aspect doesn't change. I don't know what to do. 

There's no going back. The fun part is when I update the smart object content (even adding a new blank layer is enough) and I see the layer preview restored, so I think "Oh, the preview is normal now, finally!", but sadly, the layer aspect remains unaltered after the initial distortion.

Currently I can't touch my smart objects where there's the Chrome filter applied, otherwise the layers aspect will change. I hope someone can help me. Thank you.

 In the example below, I opened the Levels filter without applying any changes (the Chrome filter is applied to the smart object, you can see it under the name Filter Gallery). As you can see, the layer preview becomes distorted (image 1). After confirming, you can see that the image changes (image 2).

 

 In the example below, I opened the Black and White filter without applying any changes (image 1). The Chrome filter is not applied to the smart object. The layer preview becomes distorted, but after confirming, no change happens (image 2).

 

    2 replies

    c.pfaffenbichler
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    February 14, 2026

    In the example below, I opened the Black and White filter without applying any changes (image 1). The Chrome filter is not applied to the smart object. The layer preview becomes distorted, but after confirming, no change happens (image 2).

    I fail to see any change/distortion in the display on the Smart Object on Canvas in this example. 

     

    Anyway, could you please post screenshots with all the other Layers hidden and the rulers visible? 

    In the first pair of images the whole Canvas seems the be moving based on the background. 

    Sameer K
    Community Manager
    Community Manager
    February 12, 2026

    Hey, ​@Faby5FAE. Welcome to the Photoshop Community. I just wanted to let you know I'll move this to discussions for now. Please share the system info from Photoshop Help > System info > Copy and paste into a text document > Upload and attach here.

     

    Does this happen when you use any image? By looking at the screenshots, you’re working on a older version of Photoshop. 

    Please update to the latest version of Photoshop from the Creative Cloud desktop app and check if the issue exists. 

     

    Thanks!
    Sameer K 

    (Type '@' and type my name to mention me when you reply)

    Faby5FAEAuthor
    Known Participant
    February 13, 2026

    Hi ​@Sameer K and thank you for replying. Yes I’m using an older version (20.0.0) because Photoshop newer versions are too heavy for my laptop. I prefer not posting all those info for privacy reasons, but if you need specific data you can ask me and I'll provide you.

    Anyway, the problem showed up again when I started another project with the same procedure, so apparently that image is not the problem here.