The Effects panel provides a single location from which you can apply photo effects. By default, the Effects panel is located on the taskbar in Quick and Expert mode. It displays thumbnail examples of the artwork or effects that you can add or apply to an image. Most sections offer a menu of category options and corresponding subcategories.
The Graphics panel provides a single location from which you can apply artwork, theme decorations, and text styles to your images. To show the Graphics panel, choose Window > Graphics.
In the Graphics panel, the following sections provide various items that can enhance your images. For example, you can select from varieties of frames, backgrounds, graphics, shapes, and text. Under each tab, a drop-down helps in choosing the right frames, backgrounds, graphics, shapes, or text to reproduce.
Each section displays thumbnail examples of the artwork or effects that you can add or apply to an image. Most sections offer a menu of category options and corresponding subcategories.
When you add a shape or graphic to an image, the shape or graphic is a new layer and does not affect the original image.
When you add an artistic background to an image, you replace the existing background layer. For example, you could use the selection tools to create a layer separating your family members from a kitchen background, and then replace the kitchen with a nature background.
When you add a frame or theme to a photo project, frames appear with a blank (gray) area for the image. Click and drag an image from the Photo Bin to the blank area.
Photo effects let you quickly create different looks for your images. In the Effects panel, choose one of the subcategories, such as Faded Photo, Panels, Monotone Color, Textures, or Vintage Photo.
Frame
Apply a variety of effects to the edges of a selected layer, or to a portion of a layer. A frame also creates a drop zone where you can add or change the contents easily.
Image Effects
Apply effects to a copy of a selected layer. Adding the Blizzard effect to an image makes it look like snow is falling. The Neon Glow effect turns the image into a dramatic neon picture. You can use Image effects, such as Oil Pastel or Soft Focus, to soften colors or blur an image. You can also combine Image effects, but you may be prompted to flatten layers first.
Textures
Apply texture layers to an image. You can add texture to a new, blank image as a background, or add a texture to an existing image. By arranging layers, and working with opacity and other layer tools, you can create interesting and attractive images.
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Many photo effects apply filters with modified values.
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If you want to experiment with an effect, modify a duplicate layer and preserve the original image.
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To apply an effect to an entire layer, deselect any selected areas in the image, and then select the layer in the Layers panel.
To apply an effect to a portion of a layer, use any selection tool to select the area.
To apply an effect to text, select or create text, and use any text effect from the Graphics panel.
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In some cases, when applying an effect to an image with multiple layers, you are prompted to flatten the image first.

When you add text to an image, a text layer is added, so you can modify the text without affecting the original image.