Same Layers Looking Different in Different Files?

Forum|Forum|13 hours ago
August 26, 2026
3 replies
24 views

Hi everybody, I’m trying to make an advert for my band but I’m having different results in two different files with the same layers and can’t figure out why. I was wondering if anybody can spot the obvious mistake I’ve made?

In one file (the one above) I have the album cover with a multiply blend of another image over it and a vertical gradient layer over that. When the gradient layer is on it comes out lighter so you can see the detail underneath. Grave stone etc.

I have dragged the exact same layers into a different file which has some other things in it and they appear completely different when the gradient layer is on! This file (the one below) it is way darker! What could be different in file on the left to the file on the right? Many thanks for any ideas.

Gareth_WilliamsAuthor

Inspiring

Thanks guys. There are layer masks involved but it should be the same in both files. I will sort out some more helpful screen shots. Thanks again.

c.pfaffenbichler

Community Expert

Please set the Status Bar to »Document Profile« and post meaningful screenshots including all pertinent Panels (Layers, Options, …).

Do the two images share the same Color Space?

As @MarekMularczyk hinted at: Do all the Gradient Layers have Layer Masks?

A Gradient Layer without a Layer Mask (or Vector Mask) will act in reference to the Canvas.

edit:

MarekMularczyk

Community Expert

Maybe the gradient you applied is a bit lower in one file and higher in another? Have you checked the position of the layer with the gradient and the gradient itself?

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