Is there a way to erase

[Arual]

drop shadows, without having to put the shadow on it's own layer?

I thought there was a way, but if there was I can't remember it - or maybe I was just dreaming and hoping it? lol

I have part of a shadow I want to erase, but I really don't want to put it on it's own layer, if I don't have to.

[kristijoy]

I'm not sure there is. I've always had to put it in it's own layer... But maybe someone else has a trick up their sleeve!

[Nettio]

As far as I know the easiest way is to put it on it's own layer. Is there a specific reason why you don't want to do that?

[Arual]

Thanks ladies.

Lynnette, the only reason I have, which isn't a good one really, is that I am trying to have less layers. I have a layout that Im working on and it's already over 100 layers (many of those layers are because of drop shadows being on their own layers). I was hoping to figure out a way to avoid it, but I guess I could just group each shadow to it's element or even merge.

[Nettio]

Oh ok, I didn't know if you were trying to do something tricky that required it or something, haha. If that's the reason than yeah, it's probably easier to put it on it's own layer, erase whatever you need and then merge it back with the element to reduce the number of layers. You can also use layer masks but that only works if you're trying to hide part of the element along with the shadow, not just the shadow itself.

[SeattleSheri]

Actually there is! I have it referenced in a few of the tutorials. I use this function quite a bit .... just make sure you have a layer mask enabled on the element you are working with and go into your blending options and select "layer mask hides the effects". I hope that helps!

[Arual]

Originally Posted by SeattleSheri

Actually there is! I have it referenced in a few of the tutorials. I use this function quite a bit .... just make sure you have a layer mask enabled on the element you are working with and go into your blending options and select "layer mask hides the effects". I hope that helps!

Holymoly! Thank you!! I just tried it and ohhhhhh I'm so happy, now I don't have to always have a bazillion layers for things like this!

[Nettio]

Originally Posted by Arual

Holymoly! Thank you!! I just tried it and ohhhhhh I'm so happy, now I don't have to always have a bazillion layers for things like this!

Yay, so glad that worked out for you! I layer masks. I'd use them for everything if I could. Well I practically do because it lets me change my mind.

[Arual]

I'm not sure why it is, but I seem to often times forget about layer masks! I really should use them more than I do. I have been trying to be better about it - well, when I remember. LOL!

[kristijoy]

My old version of PSE doesn't have layer masks. Do the newer ones?

[Nettio]

Originally Posted by kristijoy

My old version of PSE doesn't have layer masks. Do the newer ones?

I want to say starting with PSE 9 they do but don't quote me on that. Maybe someone else who knows for sure will chime in.