How to Add Images as Layers in Photoshop
Photoshop makes it easy to combine images by loading them directly as layers in a single document. You’ll learn how to load many files at once, add more images later, handle Smart Objects, and set preferences that streamline placing. A quick blending example wraps it up.
Step-by-step instructions
Load multiple images as layers (auto‑build the document)
Go to File → Scripts → Load Files into Stack.
Set Use to Files (or Folder), click Browse, select your images, then click Open.
Remove any unwanted file from the list with Remove; leave both options unchecked.
Click OK to create a new document with each image on its own layer.
Add more images using Place Embedded
Go to File → Place Embedded and select the image to add.
When Free Transform appears, click the checkmark (or press Enter/Return) to place it.
Note: placed images are Smart Objects (non‑destructive but not directly editable).
Rasterize if you need direct pixel editing
In the Layers panel, right‑click next to the Smart Object’s name → Rasterize Layer.
Edit pixels as needed (selections, erasing, etc.).
Set preferences to speed up placing
Windows: Edit → Preferences → General. Mac: Photoshop → Preferences → General.
Enable Skip Transform When Placing to bypass auto‑transform.
Disable Always Create Smart Objects When Placing to place as normal layers.
Disable Resize Image During Place to keep original pixel size when larger than the canvas.
Click OK to apply.
Optional: quick blend example
Reorder layers as needed (e.g., place a sunset above a portrait).
Change the blend mode to Screen to keep light areas and blend highlights.
Lower Opacity to taste, then merge to a new layer with Shift+Ctrl+Alt+E (Win) / Shift+Cmd+Option+E (Mac).
Go to Image → Auto Contrast for a quick pop.
