Rotate a layer

Last updated on Oct 6, 2026

Use the Rotate transform to turn layer content at any angle, with optional 15-degree constraints.

When you rotate a layer, its content rotates around the center point—other layers in your document stay in place. To rotate multiple layers simultaneously, link or group them first. To rotate your entire canvas, use Image > Image Rotation.

Rotating a layer helps you adjust the composition, correct alignment, or create dynamic layouts by rotating the layer's content without affecting other layers in your document.

Rotate the layer

In the Layers panel, select the layer you want to rotate.

Clear an active selection in the document by selecting Select > Deselect.

Select Edit > Transform > Rotate.

Move your pointer outside the bounding box until it becomes a curved two-sided arrow, then drag to rotate the layer. Hold Shift while dragging to constrain rotation to 15-degree increments.

Press Enter (Windows) or Return (macOS) to apply the rotation or press Esc to cancel.

Tip

You can also select Edit > Free Transform to access rotation along with other transformation options in a single operation.

You can use the apply transformations for complete information about transformation options, including scale, skew, distort, and perspective.