Create embedded Smart Objects

Last updated on Oct 28, 2025

Learn how to use Adobe Photoshop to convert layers to Smart Objects and edit them without changing the original image.

You can use JPEGs as Smart Objects, but PSD, TIFF, or PSB files are better. They keep layers editable and maintain quality. However, JPEGs flatten layers and compress every time you save, which can lower image quality.

Do one of the following to create an embedded Smart Object:

To import files as Smart Objects into an open Photoshop document: Select File > Place Embedded.
To create a new file with the Smart Object as the first layer: Select File > Open As Smart Object.
To convert a selected layer into a Smart Object: Select Layer > Smart Objects > Convert to Smart Object.
To select one or more layers and bundle them into one Smart Object: Select Layer > Smart Objects > Convert To Smart Object.
To add vector artwork or objects while keeping them editable: Drag PDF or Adobe Illustrator layers or objects into a Photoshop document.
To keep Illustrator artwork editable in Photoshop: Paste it into the document, select Edit > Paste
and select Smart Object in the Paste dialog.
To import a file as a Smart Object into an open Photoshop document in Bridge: Select File > Place > In Photoshop.

Tip

For best results, select Preferences > File Handling & Clipboard in Illustrator, and select PDF and AICB (No Transparency Support) before copying.

Double-click the Smart Object thumbnail in the Layers panel to edit its contents.

When you save your changes, Photoshop automatically updates every instance of that Smart Object in your document.

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