How to open a PDF with layers in Photoshop with Layers too (Not flatten image)

[ChristopherMM.]

Hi

I have created a PDF through AutoCAD with several layers. When Opening the PDF with Adobe Reader I can see and turn on/off each layer separatly. 

How can I open this file in Photoshop but with the same layer structure?

Because now all I get is 1 page/image/layer with all the information merged. Why does it not open the file with layers created as in the PDF? Is it auto-merging by default?

And yes I know I can plot from CAD each layer and then batch import with Photoshop as layer. But that is not the point. The CAD file has approx 15layers dont want to repeat that prosess or use a LISP. When the PDF already has layer information. Photoshop just need to understand and open the file with each layers.

Thanks for the help

CM

[D Fosse]

A layer in a vector application (AutoCAD) is not the same thing as a layer in a raster editor (Photoshop). Sometimes it can be translated, but mostly not. You can't open Illustrator layers in Photoshop either.

A pdf is an "agnostic" container that can hold both vector and raster data.    

[Stephen Marsh · Accepted solution]

PDF uses the term layers in the Acrobat GUI, however they are called "Optional Content Groups" and act more like a filter than a layer. In PDF the layers don't control stacking "Z" order, they can filter content such as having all text on a "layer" or all raster images on a separate "layer" etc, independent of one element being in front of or behind another object.

[Jeff Arola]

Perhaps this will work:

https://www.no-nonsens.nl/autocad-to-photoshop-with-layers/