Why can’t I unsharp?

RV
Posted By
Robert_von_Pentz
Oct 8, 2003
Views
161
Replies
3
Status
Closed
I am able to use the unsharp mask filter on an image before I add new layers but not afterward. After using new layer curves and new layer hue/saturation I get neither the preview pane nor the ability to apply the filter. I am sure this is something simple, can you help?

Thanks, Bob
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MV
Mathias_Vejerslev
Oct 8, 2003
You can only sharpen a pixel layer, not an adjustment layer.

Flatten your layers, or select a pixel layer in order to use filters.
GT
Gene_Trujillo
Oct 8, 2003
It makes sense that PS change the selection to the adjustment layer when one is added, but I just can’t seem to remember that it does that.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve added adjustment layers, opened the USM dialog, done a double take as nothing changed in the preview, then realized that the most recent adjustment layer was selected!
LH
Lawrence_Hudetz
Oct 8, 2003
Amen to that, Gene.

However, if you have more than one duplicate layer and proceed to sharpen or even clone without flattening, it gets messy.
I had an image that I absolutely did not want to save flattened, but didn’t want to clone the dust each time I used it. So, if the clone tool didn’t respond, I would look for the Dupe backround where it would.

Lesson 1: Clean up your image before layering.

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