Export only a single layer as image without hiding other layers?

[the_real_nps]

I know I can just make only one layer visible and then save as e.g. PNG. But my question is - do I have to make all other layers invisibile in order to save only my one single layer as image? Or is there a way to save only a single layer (or a few at once) without hiding the rest of them?

[JJMack]

You may want to look at the script Export Layer to files the is part of Photoshop.  You can duplicate a layer into a new document get that code from the scriptlistner ...

[the_real_nps]

Yes, I know that. But my goal isn't to avoid hiding other layers - my goal is to avoid any unnecessary actions - to get more speed and a simpler way to export. Creating a new document sounds like the opposite. Thx for trying.

[JJMack]

What does export mean in your mind. Remember Photoshop is a document editor not a file editor it only save files from documents,  There is a way to toggle off visible layers but the one you Alt click on visibility icon. Perhaps the scriptlistiner can shed some light on that,  Photoshop will still have to process all layers and you need to toggle the visibility the second time. It sounded to me that you want to do something like Export Layers to Files that is why I suggested that you look at how Adobe programmers addressed the subject.

[the_real_nps]

I thought of a better way to ask my question - can Photoshop export to an image from only one layer (and not all visible ones)?

[Michael_L_Hale · Accepted solution]

If you have Photoshop CC you can use the new Adobe Generator to export single layers without worrying about the other layer's visibility.

If you don't have CC or don't want to use Generator you either need to turn off layers or dupe to a new document. Photoshop itself can't save a single layer in a multi-layer document.