7 Steps to Superimpose Images in Photoshop

Superimposing images using Photoshop photo editing software for PC allows you merge different layers, add a new logo to your product photos, or create a professional-looking collage.

If you have never done this before, first, you need to download Photoshop free from the official site. Then, follow the steps described below to achieve this effect.

1. Open the Needed Two Images

superimpose images opening

In this Photoshop tutorial, I will tell you how to create a superimposed effect by following several simple steps.

First, you need to open two images and superimpose them one on top of the other. To open photos quicker, you can use Photoshop shortcuts – Cmd/Ctrl + O. Before superimposing photographs, organize the layers in a way that an image that you want to add to the top will be put above the background image.

2. Remove the Background from the Top Layer

superimpose images background removal

At this stage, it’s important to remove the background of a picture from the top layer.

3. Create a Layer Mask

superimpose images mask

For those who want to get superimposed images Photoshop offers an automated tool. Click Remove Background to quickly delete the background from the top image layer and create a new Layer Mask. It will allow you to make the selected area invisible without deleting it.

4. Adjust the Settings of the Mask

superimpose images mask adjusting

Once you have created a mask in Photoshop, make sure to edit it a bit further to achieve the most realistic effect. Start by editing the edges of the mask using the Brush Tool. Find it on the tools panel or press to select the B tool automatically.

By drawing on the mask using black, white, or other colors, you can create subtle gradients and slightly merge two images.

5. Add Gaussian Blur

superimpose images background blurring

You might notice that the objects in the background look slightly blurred. It happens because of an insufficiently deep depth of field. This issue is common for situations when a camera is focused on the object in the foreground. You can add extra depth of field by applying the Gaussian Blur effect.

To make the background of the picture blurry, select it and then click on Filter > Blur > Gaussian Blur. After applying the effect, you can customize it to your liking by changing its intensity. It will allow you to create the necessary difference in depth.

6. Convert a Layer into a Smart Object

superimpose images converting to smart object

A Smart Object is a special container for storing one or multiple layers. By converting your layers into smart objects, you can perform non-destructive editing, add a distortion effect, apply filters, and transform your image.

After creating a smart object out of your layers, you can edit it as one image. To do it, you need to click on the Convert to Smart Object option.

7. Select a Suitable Overlay

superimpose images overlay choosing

Click on the Color Overlay and select the most suitable option for bringing your idea to life.

8. Make Final Settings

superimpose images opacity

After superimposing a picture, you can edit multiple layers as one image. It allows you to fix contrast issues, adjust the temperature, and change saturation to give the final touches to your photo. Pay attention to the transparency settings as they will impact the quality of your effect.

Then, save your image in the highest quality image format, such as PNG or JPG. It will allow you to optimize it before posting it online or uploading it to your portfolio.

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Want to Create Beautiful Superimposed Photos?

If you like a superimpose effect but lack the necessary skills to achieve the result you need, entrust this task to the professionals working for FixThePhoto. They will masterfully combine multiple images to help you get a stylish superimposed photo.

Bonus Tools

fixthephoto actions collection

In case you want to add a double exposure effect to your photos or fix some issues with your superimposed pictures, take a closer look at this bundle of effects. In a few clicks, you can create a mesmerizing superimpose effect and customize it.

You can quickly install Photoshop actions on your device and use these effects to give your photos a professional feel.

FAQ

  • • What are the key considerations when selecting images for superimposing in Photoshop?

When selecting images for superimposing in Photoshop, it is important to consider the composition, lighting, and perspective of both images to ensure they align seamlessly. Selecting images with similar resolutions and color tones can help in achieving a more realistic and cohesive superimposed result.

  • • Are there any advanced features or plugins in Photoshop that can aid in achieving more complex or refined image superimposing results?

Yes, Photoshop offers advanced features like Content-Aware Fill, which intelligently fills in missing areas when superimposing images and helps create seamless blends.

There are various plugins available, such as Topaz ReMask or ON1 Perfect Mask, that provide specialized tools and algorithms specifically designed for intricate image superimposing tasks.

  • • What are the common challenges or pitfalls encountered when working with image superimposing in Photoshop?

The biggest challenges are matching the lighting and color tones between the base and superimposed images for a realistic blend, as well as ensuring proper perspective and alignment. Another pitfall can be the presence of fine details or intricate edges, which may require careful masking or refining techniques to avoid noticeable artifacts or inconsistencies.

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