Creating an action to resize and add a common layer to files

[KathleenMartin]

I am trying to create an automation that will resize several files and add a common layer (from a file) to each.  The source images are not in the aspect ratio that I want them to end up in; I want 8x10.  I know how to do the resize as part of my action. But I am stuck trying to figure out how to add a new layer into these resized images as part of my automation.

For example, let's say I have 10 source files that are 5.5 inches by 9 inches (call then Source1.jpg, Source2.jpg... up to Source10.jpg).  And I have a single/common file (call it "NewBackground.jpg") that I want to add as the bottom layer in an automation - that common file is already sized to 8x10.  I know how to open the source file(s) and use Image/Canvas Size to expand the source to 8x10 in my automation. Where I am stuck is adding "NewBackground,jpg" as a new layer into Source1.jpg, Source2.jpg, Source3.jpg, etc.

My goal is to be able to do Files/Automate/Batch, point to the folder where the source images are, do as described above and have all of the updated files save under the name of the original.

Any ideas?

[c.pfaffenbichler]

One can record File > Place … in an Action.