Skip to main content
J
Juli5DF8
Participant
August 31, 2020
Question

Flattened file retains large file size

  • August 31, 2020
  • 4 replies
  • 2315 views

I've flattened a number of PSD files and the file size isn't reducing properly. Although the size shows 2.15M in the Doc field on the open document, when I check the Explore folder for the files they are listed at approximately 16MB. The PSD files only shows background as a layer. No other layers are showing. Any ideas? I've closed/open PhotoShop. Haven't restarted my system but will in hopes that solves the issue. In the meantime, any one have ideas? 

Thanks! Juli

    This topic has been closed for replies.

    4 replies

    R
    r-bin
    Legend
    September 1, 2020
    Open your "Large" flat file.
    In the layers palette, right-click on the Background layer.
    Select "Duplicate layer ...".
    In the dialog box, select Document -> New.

    Flatten the new document and save next to the old one.
    Compare the sizes.
     
      andyl95800167
      andyl95800167
      Participant
      May 17, 2023

      This helped me with my problem, but it didn't show what caused the problem or how to fix it without a workaround. Went form 11 MB before to 700 kb after. No idea what was causing the larger files.

      Stephen Marsh
      Community Expert
      Stephen MarshCommunity Expert
      Community Expert
      September 1, 2020

      I'd suggest that you keep your working PSD files layered. If you need a PSD copy, then flatten the copy.

       

      As for excessive file size, this may or may not be due to document ancestor metadata.

       

      Metadata Bloat – photoshop:DocumentAncestors

      Nancy OShea
      Community Expert
      Nancy OSheaCommunity Expert
      Community Expert
      August 31, 2020

      16MB is nothing.  And I prefer not to flatten PSDs if at all possible. It's important to keep original work files with layers intact in case you ever need to edit again.

       

      How many total pixels (height x width) is your image?

      When you go to File > Export > Export As and save as JPG, what is the output file size that's showing in the left side panel?  See my screenshot.

       

      When you need a smaller file size to save bandwidth online, use the ExportAs option and save as JPG.

       

      Nancy O'Shea— Product User & Community Expert
      R
      r-bin
      Legend
      August 31, 2020
      Alpha channels, metadata, composite layer (compatibility mode)?
       
        J
        Juli5DF8Author
        Participant
        August 31, 2020

        Sorry r-bin, I'm not a professional so I don't understand the shorthand version. Where do I find that information on my PSD files? Googled composite layer which turns out that may be very helpful: I'm trying to make the PSD files small enough that I can post online for other geographical locations to translate for their countries. Composite layer may be a good option instead of flattening--which is what I'm having file size problems with. Any insight is appreciate, r-bin. I'm only 30 feet below the surface of Photoshop. 

         

        Thanks!

         

        Terms & ConditionsAccessibility statement
        Using the community Terms of use Privacy Cookie preferences Do not sell or share my personal information ad choicesAdChoices