In the Layers panel (select Window > Layers if not visible), locate the layer containing the element you want to add to your composition.
Last updated on
Sep 28, 2026
Learn how to use layers, object selection, and masking to blend multiple photos into a unified composition in Adobe Photoshop on desktop.
Use object selection, layer masks, and edge refinement to combine image elements. For panoramic stitching, use File > Automate > Photomerge instead, and for focus stacking, select Auto-Blend Layers with Stack Images.
Prepare your layers
Select the visibility icon (eye) next to the layer to make it visible if it's currently hidden.
Select the layer name to make it active.
Select your subject
Select Object Selection tool from the toolbar or press W.
Hover over the element you want to select until a pink highlight appears around it.
Select the highlighted area to create a selection.
Tip
To select multiple objects on the same layer, hold Shift and select additional elements. The Object Selection tool works best with images that have clear contrast between subjects and backgrounds.
Refine the selection edges
With your selection active, select Select and Mask from the Options bar.
In the Properties panel, choose a View Mode that clearly shows the edges of your selected element.
Select the Refine Edge Brush tool from the Select and Mask toolbar.
Brush along the outer edges of your selection to clean up details like hair, fur, or complex shapes.
Use the [ and ] keys to adjust brush size as you work.
In the Output Settings section at the bottom of the Properties panel, set Output To to Layer Mask.
Select OK to apply the mask.
The refined selection appears on its own layer with a layer mask that isolates the selected element from its background.
Position and arrange elements
Select the Move tool from the toolbar or press V.
Drag the masked element to position it where you want it in the composition.
In the Layers panel, drag layers up or down to reorder them and control which elements appear in front of or behind others.
Make remaining layers visible by selecting their visibility icons to reveal the complete composition.
Tip
To resize or transform an element, select Ctrl + T (Windows) or Command + T (macOS) to access Free Transform. Hold Shift while dragging a corner handle to maintain the original proportions.
Refine your composite
Once positioned, refine your composite:
Adjust individual layer opacity in the Layers panel.
Experiment with blend modes from the blend mode dropdown menu.
Add adjustment layers from the Adjustments panel to unify lighting and color.
To move an element between documents, select the Move tool and drag a layer from one image window into another. Hold Shift while dragging to center the element in the destination image.
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