Blending two images using the gradient tool

[ianb63889230]

I used to be able to select an image, apply a layer mask, and then apply as many gradients as I wanted. Now when I go to add the gradient, the gradient no longer shows up, and the image doesn't fade. What am I doing wrong? Been having this problem ever since I downloaded the 2018 Version of Photoshop CC. If anyone could let me know how to make it so I can apply gradients to fade selected layers again that would be great.

[Chuck Uebele]

Can you post a screen shot to see what's going on? This still works, so without seeing your workspace, we're not going to be able to answer your question.

[ianb63889230]

So as you can see, I'm trying to fade some of the players on the side, so they don't stick out to awkwardly. Any advice would be great!

[Chuck Uebele]

Terri has an excellent way to use multiple layer masks on a single layer. Sometimes, I get lazy and apply multiple gradients to a single mask by changing the blend mode of the gradient tool to multiply.

[Terri Stevens · Accepted solution]

The way I apply multiple gradients to layer masks exploits groups. You start with a layer mask and gradient on your Image. Then you press 'ctrl-g' or 'cmd-g' on the single layer to create a group. Now add a layer mask to the group and add your gradient. Next select the group and press 'ctrl-g' or 'cmd-g' to group the group and you can put a layer mask on that group with a gradient. If you want more gradients on layer masks , group the group you just created and add a layer mask to that group with a gradient. Using this method you can create as many layer masks with gradients as you want all nested within a group structure.