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preditorj40153117
preditorj40153117
Inspiring
August 23, 2018
Question

Layers Compiled in Export or Save As that effect file size

  • August 23, 2018
  • 3 replies
  • 1087 views

I have always wondered if the layers turned off in a composition effect file size on export. It seems it does.

1. So my question is, do the layers that are turned off effect file size?

I use a template to place the same text & logo elements over photos from some of my clients. One layout for many photos, currently 28 image layers in one PSD.

2. If the off layers affect the file size (making it bigger) how do i handle this workflow so that the off layers are not affected file size?

NOTE: I know it affects the PSD file itself but does it effect jpeg, png ... etc?

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    3 replies

    preditorj40153117
    preditorj40153117Author
    Inspiring
    October 19, 2018

    so whether i have 25layers or 2 layers those files will be the nearly the same size after export to jpeg?

    davescm
    Community Expert
    davescmCommunity Expert
    Community Expert
    October 19, 2018

    Yes the file size when compressed depends on the visible image content. Large plain areas compress much further than fine detail. But nothing hidden affects it.

    Dave

      davescm
      Community Expert
      davescmCommunity Expert
      Community Expert
      August 23, 2018

      Hi

      Exporting to jpeg or png file formats which do not support layers is effectively done by flattening the image (in the background)  then saving a copy of the flattened image. Nothing hidden can impact the file size as no other layers aside from the flattened image are saved.

      Dave

        JJMack
        Community Expert
        JJMackCommunity Expert
        Community Expert
        August 23, 2018

        It depends on option used like maximum compatibility will save a full size composite view.  An empty view will be encoded smaller than a image of course applications that do not support layers  and only use the psd composite will see no image or be able to generate a thumbnail for the image.  Layer's  visibility is just a bit its recorded either on or off the layers content will always be recorded in a layered file.  Layer effect visibility effect the layers composite view therefore the image will vary with those settings. If it effect the PSD image view it effects jpeg, tiff png etc.

        JJMack
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