tip: don't duplicate a layer to apply a blend mode

[hoodsmom]

Got this from Photoshop Training Channel

Do not duplicate a layer to apply a blend mode. Instead create an Adjustment Layer, like Curves or Levels, and change its blend mode. It will give you the same result as duplicating a layer and changing the blend mode, but with a lower file size and more flexibility since you can also make adjustments.

I tried it on a very simple stack.
Duplicated a layer and set to overlay - file size 34.6 MB
Applied levels layer and set to overlay - file size 28 MB

 

[Aussiekat]

Cool tip - thanks for sharing!

 

[heathert]

Cool beans! =)

 

[Tamsin]

This is something I often do so thanks for the tip.

 

[VickiStegall]

excellent! I definitely need smaller file sizes!!!

 

[bcgal00]

Great tip!

 

[DoggiNo]

Super !! Anything that reduces the file size is great !