Uses for Overlay Layers

A little while ago, someone pointed me at the TLR video tutorial on using overlay layers for dodging and burning (located at http://www.thelightsri​ghtstudio.com/tutorial​s-video.htm). More recently, I discovered how to use overlay layers with the high pass filter for sharpening - another great tip.

So, are there any other great uses for overlay layers other than

• Dodging and Burning
  
• Sharpening

Great for just adding contrast to an image. Don't forget about Soft Light too which gives a similar but not so harsh effect as Overlay. Great topic. I'd be interested to see what other people use their blending mode for.

Actually - can anyone recommend any guides as to what the blend modes do?

In Photoshop, hit F1, and type "blend mode" in the search box, click search, and a list with all the modes and definitions will appear.

Thanks jfranco - I never thought to try and search the online help. I think I'll need to play around a lot.

Anyway - getting back to my original topic (even though it was me who deviated from that topic)

Does anybody have any uses for overlay (or soft light, or hard light) layers other than for sharpening or dodging / burning?

Off the top of my head I can think of one: use "hard light" after embossing text for a quick 3D effect.

Othertimes, I play with the blend modes when doing monochrome conversion - just to see what I get. It is sometimes difficult to comprehend just what the effect is going to do when working with several layers and masks.

Thanks - that works nicely

Ok - so

1. High pass filter on overlay layer to sharpen (use levels to adjust intensity)
   
2. Use overlay layer to dodge and burn (using the dodge and burn tools on a 50% gray filled overlay layer
   
3. Hard light on embossed text to give a quick 3D effect (thanks jfrancho)

Oh yes - I use difference mode to make sure that two images used for a blended exposure are in exact registration. You drop the darker exposure onto the lighter exposure and change to difference mode. If they're out of registration, the "differences" will light up.