Prevent PS stealing focus after layers loaded

Question

Adobe Photoshop Version: 26.11.0 20250918.r.18 a87e57f

Windows 11 x64 Version 10.0.26100 Build 26100

I work with LR and PS. Opening layers from LR to PS works in background, but once the layers are loaded, the PS window comes to the front, interrupting my LR workflow.

1. Select files in LR --> open as layers in PS

2. Continue working in LR on next set of files to open as layers

3. PS window comes to the front when layers are done loading

4. If holding slider in LR when this happens, a sticky mouse typically happens.

I've been using this workflow for a decade and this has never happened.

How can I prevent PS from stealing focus and coming to the front when layers are finished loading?

I only want to go back to PS when I've selected about 5 different sets of photos to open as layers.

alexanderl16240166 · Answer

I'm surprised you've never run into it before. Photoshop constantly steals focus whenever you're automating absolutely anything. Every file opened, duplicated, saved, etc will cause it to cover other windows, at least on MacOS. It's been that way for the 10 years I've been using it professionally, and I assume longer. There is no workaround other than moving to a different "Space" (on MacOS) or Desktop on windows. Even then it can occasionally do it. It's very annoying but you get used to it.

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