Effects order explained in ON1 Photo Raw

Summary

In this video, the presenter explains the importance of the order in which effects are applied in ON1 Photo RAW. They demonstrate how different effects, like texture, blur, split tone, and black-and-white filters, interact based on their position in the layer stack. Practical examples such as creating a 'mystic forest' and 'glowing forest' effect are shown, emphasizing the flexibility and creative potential of the software. The presenter also discusses how local adjustments are processed separately from global effects, offering tips for effective photo editing and layer management.

Takeaways

• 😀 The order of effects in your layer stack significantly impacts the final image outcome in On1 Photo RAW.
• 😀 The effect at the bottom of the stack applies first and sets the foundation for subsequent effects.
• 😀 The topmost effect dominates the image, covering those below it unless specifically adjusted or blended.
• 😀 The texture layer, when placed at the bottom, impacts the image's overall appearance before any other effects are applied.
• 😀 Blurring an image affects only the elements below it in the stack, preserving the topmost layers intact.
• 😀 Adjusting the placement of effects like split tone can drastically change how they interact with other layers.
• 😀 Applying a black and white filter to the layer stack will convert the image to grayscale, but the effects above it will still influence the image.
• 😀 Local adjustments, such as painting with color, are applied before the main effects and may be overridden by subsequent effects in the stack.
• 😀 To retain control over local adjustments, consider duplicating the image layer and merging it into a new layer for better flexibility.
• 😀 Experimenting with the order of effects and using different blending modes is essential for unlocking creative possibilities in photo editing.

Q & A

What is the significance of the first effect in the layer stack in On1 Photo Raw?

The first effect in the layer stack is the one that impacts the image first. It lays the foundation for the rest of the effects to interact with.

How does the position of the texture effect layer affect the split tone effect?

When the texture effect is placed above the split tone layer, it will cover the split tone effect, preventing it from being applied to the texture. If the texture layer is placed below the split tone, the split tone will affect the texture.

What happens when a black and white effect is applied to the layer stack?

When a black and white effect is applied, it turns the entire layer stack into a black and white image. However, the layers beneath it, like the split tone, will still impact the image's final result if positioned above the black and white effect.

How do blend modes and 'Apply to Color' ranges affect the layer stack?

Blend modes and 'Apply to Color' ranges can significantly influence how effects interact with the image. For this video, the focus was on understanding the foundations of layer stacks, while more advanced techniques like blend modes will be discussed later.

What is the 'mystic forest' effect, and how is it achieved?

The 'mystic forest' effect is created by stacking several effects: a texture layer, blur, bleach bypass, and weather effects. Each of these layers contributes to the overall mood and atmosphere of the image, with fog and blur enhancing the mystic feel.

How does the blur effect change the final look when placed at different positions in the stack?

The position of the blur effect alters how it interacts with other effects. If the blur is at the top, it blurs all the layers below. If placed at the bottom, the blur only affects the image after all other effects have been applied.

What is the importance of the border layer in the example, and how does it interact with the photo filter?

The border layer interacts with the photo filter by being affected by the yellow tint of the photo filter. If the photo filter is turned off, the border becomes brighter, highlighting how layer positioning influences the final look.

What is the difference between the glowing forest effect and other practical examples?

The glowing forest effect focuses on glowing highlights and shadows, achieved by applying a glow effect specifically to those areas. Turning off the glow in either the highlights or shadows dramatically changes the image's feel.

How do local adjustments interact with the effects applied in the On1 Photo Raw?

Local adjustments are always applied first, before any effects. If a black and white effect is applied, it will override the color in the local adjustment, demonstrating how local adjustments are impacted by the effects stack.

What should you do if you want to apply local adjustments after effects have already been applied?

To apply local adjustments after effects, you should duplicate the layer, then create a stamped layer. This allows you to add a new local adjustment without disrupting the effects already applied.