DiDA – Image manipulation Lesson 3– Objectives Understand how layers work Look at the term “opacity” Understand blending modes Using move / scale / rotate tools

DiDA – Image manipulation How do layers work? Layer 4 Layer 3 Layer 2 Layer 1 Each layer is a different part of a image. Layers can be manipulated individually which allows us to do more advanced techniques. Layers are built up like a sandwich. They are built bottom up with the top layer hiding all layers underneath.

DiDA – Image manipulation Transparency and layers Top layers will hide anything underneath them. In order to “see” what is underneath a layer must contain transparent areas. GIMP shows transparency as a grey checkerboard pattern (see image to the right)

DiDA – Image manipulation How does it work Without transparency the lotus flower covers all of the lower layer.

DiDA – Image manipulation How does it work With transparency the background is visible.

DiDA – Image manipulation Building images using layers You should always follow this golden rule “If you add something, it should have it’s own layer” You will end up with a lot of layers but this is a good thing! Honest!

DiDA – Image manipulation Using layers Task – Use the skills learnt to combine a image with a background you have created using the gradient tool. Watch out for artefacts!

DiDA – Image manipulation Adding a new layer Add new layer Deleted layer Duplicate layer

DiDA – Image manipulation Activity Create two layers. One layer should have a gradient pattern. The second should have something else! Advanced – Add a image with the background erased. You could use the image from a previous lesson.

DiDA – Image manipulation Blend modes The default blend mode is “normal”. This will hide anything underneath the layer which is not transparent. However there are lots of blend modes to try out!

DiDA – Image manipulation Changing mode Changing the blend mode is easy! All you have to select a new mode from the layers dialogue. The different modes can produce some very interesting effects so it is worth trying them all out!

DiDA – Image manipulation Activity We are going to try and create some fancy text by using the blend tools. Follow the steps on this powerpoint or the help video.

DiDA – Image manipulation Step 1 – Add some text The “A” tool will add text. You can change the font type, size and colour in the options underneath. Add your name to a blank image.

DiDA – Image manipulation Step 2 – Add a new layer Add a new layer and make sure it is above the text. Add a gradient pattern to the new layer. Make sure you select the correct layer!

DiDA – Image manipulation Step 3 – Changing blend mode Select the pattern layer you created and then change the blend mode. You should start to see your text appear with a pattern!

DiDA – Image manipulation Activity Find a image and remove the background. Blend a gradient background into it. Finally add the result to a second image.