Blend modes are settings in graphic design software that control how one layer interacts with the layers beneath it. They determine how colors and tones from two layers mix together to create different visual effects.
Instead of simply placing one layer over another, blend modes allow you to creatively combine them by changing the way they interact. This is especially useful in photo editing, digital painting, and graphic design.
Common blend modes include:
Multiply – Darkens the image by multiplying base and blend colors.
Screen – Lightens the image by inverting, multiplying, then inverting again.
Overlay – Combines Multiply and Screen to boost contrast.
Soft Light / Hard Light – Adds subtle or strong highlights and shadows.
Difference – Creates a high-contrast look by subtracting blend values from base values.
Blend modes are used to create shadows, highlights, textures, lighting effects, or even dramatic artistic looks.
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