Effects Layer

Effects Layers run the active effect chain against the composite below them, turning effects into an ordered part of the layer stack.

Overview

What Effects Layer is for

Processing layers below

Stack-level effect passes

Blendable effect chains

How-to

Starting Workflow for Effects Layers

  1. Step 1

    Build the source layers that should feed the effect chain.

  2. Step 2

    Use the plus menu and choose Effects Layer, or use the default Effects Layer already present in a new stack.

  3. Step 3

    Add and tune effects from the effects tray and effect controls.

  4. Step 4

    Place the Effects Layer above the layers it should process.

  5. Step 5

    Use Opacity and Blend on the Effects Layer to mix the processed result back into the stack.

Reference

Effects Layer controls

ControlWhat it changes
Effect chainThe loaded effects and their parameters define what this layer applies to the composite below it.
OpacityMixes the processed effects result with the stack.
BlendChanges how the processed result combines with layers below it.
VisibilityBypasses the Effects Layer without removing the effect chain.
SoloIsolates the layer for checking what the effects pass is contributing.
Layer orderControls which lower layers feed into the effects pass.

Practice

Usage tips

Think of an Effects Layer as a processor for everything below it, not as a standalone media source.

Keep one Effects Layer near the top for a global final treatment.

Add another Effects Layer lower in the stack when only part of the composition should be processed.