PSD files will not open on photoshop elements PLEASE HELP

Report · May 04, 2021

When I try to open graphics I purchased with my photoshop elements they will not open as editable PNG transparent background type they should be. When hitting open on the PSD file photo shop opens and shows a box that says "This document uses an unsupported color mode..." and suggests "convert to RGB. When you convert it to RBG you cannot edit anything...

The only other file types that came in the package that is supposed to be changed and editted using photoshop are .ai and .eps I am not sure what to do with them to get them to work. These are graphics for me website and to create a new logo for my business. I am working on a PC with Windows.

Can someone please help me?

Report · May 04, 2021

Hi Kara,

Sorry, I'm a bit confused by your question... you mention the PNG file format to start with, then start talking about PSD files...

I think what is happening is that the PSD files you are trying to open have been created using the CMYK color mode which isn't supported in Photoshop Elements. That is why you are getting a message suggesting that you convert it to the RGB color mode.

Converting PSD files from CMYK to RGB doesn't affect the document's layer structure (which is what makes the files "editable"). So that makes me think you are in Quick mode in Photoshop Elements when you need to be in Expert mode, otherwise you won't be able to see the Layers panel.

Once you've got the Layers panel up and running by clicking on the Layers button in the Taskbar, you can then select each individual layer, make your edits and then go to File > Save for Web to output your transparent PNGs for the Web.

Hope that helps 🙂

Report · May 04, 2021

A screenshot would help clear things up, quickly. Sounds to me that whatever you are working on is a locked layer, not the entire thing, just that one layer.

Please post a screenshot that shows everything, in particular, the contents of the layers panel like what you see here.