how to duplicate groups with other images and objects in them

[Stefan Cargoski]

hi forum.

I know how to duplicate an image or object using the commands, Ctrl-Alt T, and then Shift-Ctrl-Alt T

and the layer with the objects or images will be replicated along the desired direction.

But how can I do it with groups which have other images, objects in them. I cant figure out a way, or find a tutorial on YT.

Thnank you.

[Stephen Marsh]

I'm not in front of the computer, but try converting the group to a smart object layer.

[Bojan Živković]

I tested this on Windows with Photoshop version 25.4.0 and it did not work. 

[Azeem35369243xeq4]

You are So Janus Sir i Like your Suggestion 

[Hazel35450925m18c]

me also 

[c.pfaffenbichler]

Please elaborate. 

[c.pfaffenbichler]

cmd-alt-shift-T seems to work out on a Smart Object here. 

Edit: Correction, the re-applied Transformation was actually stored from a previous Transformation of a non-Smart Object! 

So as a workaround it would be possible to transforma a plain pixel Layer and apply that to the SO. 

[Stefan Cargoski]

The reason I avoid converting it to smart object is, because when I have blend modes added to some object, and layer FX styles, it ruines the group appearance. 

[Bojan Živković · Accepted solution]

Here is a possible way to automate the process:

- Duplicate the group.
- Transform the group by moving it in free transform mode and confirming the change.
- Duplicate the group again.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + T to repeat the transformation.
- Duplicate the group once more.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + T to repeat the transformation again.
- Duplicate the group...

Or record two step action:

- Duplicate the group.
- Transform the group by moving it in free transform mode and confirming the change.

Assign keyboard shortcut to play action.

[Stephen Marsh · Accepted solution]

Although I didn't design the following script for this exact task, it does work with layer groups.

https://community.adobe.com/t5/photoshop-ecosystem-discussions/creating-duplicate-images-for-multi-p...

It is expected that the canvas is the correct size for the original 1up image, the canvas should not be larger than the image content. The canvas will be extended as required for the step and repeat.

[Stefan Cargoski]

This was helpful, but I wish for the Adobe developers to make it possible to repeat groups without a script to be generated.

Kind regards. 

[Stephen Marsh]

This was helpful, but I wish for the Adobe developers to make it possible to repeat groups without a script to be generated.

Kind regards. 

By @Stefan Cargoski

Well they have and you can!

I have just tested, no need for a smart object. Just Edit > Copy the active layer group and then Edit > Paste in place. Or duplicate as @Bojan Živković suggested. Transform. Then repeat with Edit > Transform again as many times as needed.