Topic 12: Images - Grouping and Layering

This section covers the skills required to manage images within image editing software. You will learn how to group and layer images to create complex visual compositions. This is a fundamental skill for graphic design and web development.

1. Understanding Layers

In image editing, images are arranged in layers. Each layer can be thought of as a transparent sheet stacked on top of each other. This allows you to edit individual elements without affecting others. Layers can be reordered, hidden, and their properties can be adjusted independently.

2. Grouping Images

Grouping images combines multiple individual layers into a single, manageable unit. This is useful for organizing complex designs and making it easier to move or transform related elements.

2.1 Grouping and Ungrouping

Grouping: Selecting multiple layers and then using the 'Group' function (usually found in the 'Layer' menu or as an icon in the toolbar) combines these layers into a single group.

Ungrouping: Selecting a grouped layer and using the 'Ungroup' function (usually found in the 'Layer' menu) separates the layers back into their original individual states.

2.2 Moving Groups

Once a group is created, it can be treated as a single unit. Selecting the group and using the move tool will move all the layers within the group together.

2.3 Ungrouping and Moving Individual Layers within a Group

You can ungroup a group to select and manipulate individual layers within it. After ungrouping, you can select and move specific layers within the group.

3. Layer Order (Bringing to Front and Back)

The order of layers determines which elements appear on top of others. You can change the layer order to control the visual hierarchy of your image.

3.1 Bringing to the Front

To bring a layer to the front, select it in the Layers panel and use the 'Bring to Front' option (often an upward arrow icon). This places the layer above all other layers.

3.2 Sending to the Back

To send a layer to the back, select it in the Layers panel and use the 'Send to Back' option (often a downward arrow icon). This places the layer below all other layers.

4. Example Scenario

Consider a design with a background image, a text box, and a logo. To manage this effectively:

1. Create a group containing the text box and the logo.
2. Bring the group to the front to ensure it overlays the background image.
3. Ungroup the text box and logo if you need to individually adjust their position or properties.

5. Practice Exercises

1. Create a simple image with three layers: a background color, a shape, and some text. Group the shape and text together.
2. Ungroup the group and move the shape to a different position.
3. Send the background layer to the back and the shape group to the front.

Operation	Description	Result
Grouping	Combines selected layers into a single unit.	Layers are treated as one. Moving the group moves all layers together.
Ungrouping	Separates a grouped layer back into its individual layers.	Individual layers can be selected and manipulated independently.
Bring to Front	Moves a layer above all other layers.	The selected layer is visually on top.
Send to Back	Moves a layer below all other layers.	The selected layer is visually behind other layers.