Looking for way to create random or sequential filename within save as action

[brucer76377765]

Hi and thanks for any input on this question. Does anyone know of a way to create a random or sequential file name in an action that ends with a save command?

[Ronald Keller]

Not with actions but probably possible with a script. Try the scripting forum.

[Benjamin Root]

If you have Bridge, try Batch Rename. Should work for you, and you don't have to re-save the file, which would degrade quality

[Stephen Marsh]

If you are running an action using the batch command, it is possible to add a sequential number. Sequential numbering is also a feature of the Image Processor Pro script.

I have not come across random schemes.

I second Benjamin Root’s suggestion for Bridge’s Batch Rename as an extra post processing step, even more so if the originals are JPEG files.

[brucer76377765]

Thank you for your replies. I should have specified. I am saving various layers from a psd file. Not all the layers but some. I'm not sure I understand how I could use batch command in this way. Would I make it part of the action?

[Stephen Marsh]

That does make a difference!

What version of Photoshop?

Perhaps a screenshot of the layers or expanded action would help.

[brucer76377765]

Version CC.

Right now I am thinking it will have to be done with a script. What do you think?

[Stephen Marsh · Accepted solution]

There are various scripts to rename layers.

There are various scripts to export all layers or layers within groups etc (both from Adobe and user created scripts).

With later versions of Photoshop, it is possible to select all layers and use the Layer > Export As… command to save out each layer as an individual image file. This can be recorded into an action for semi-automated processing.

You should be able to come up with a workable solution.

[Stephen Marsh]

Apparently continued here:

Need a script to save file with random or sequential filename to be placed in action

[brucer76377765]

Thank you all for your help! This seems to be resolved by using export layers to files.