Layer styles
A layer style adds effects like drop shadow, glow, stroke or gradient to a layer, separate from its content. The effects stay fully editable and adapt as you change the layer. They are used mainly on text, shapes and logos.
Double-click a layer to open the Layer Style window and tick effects like Drop Shadow or Stroke. Because a layer style is non-destructive, you can change it later, copy it to other layers or remove it entirely. For photo editing itself you use them less than for design, but a subtle border or shadow can finish off a collage. Tip: right-click the layer style to copy it and paste it onto several layers at once.
Related terms
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The presets on this site set these adjustments up for you as a starting point, which you then fine-tune to taste.