Layer Modes in Digital Art

Digital art is a wonderful tool for making art. Unlike traditional art mediums, digital art programs have so many features in one package (which means no spending copious amounts of money on art supplies from time to time)! And they are truly capable of creating gorgeous artworks. However, art programs' sheer number of features means that learning how to use them can be quite difficult!

One of the most important aspects of digital art programs are layer modes, as they are useful in adding effects without altering the drawing itself. Layer modes are usually used in shading and adding lighting, as well as adjusting colors. Though there are many types of layer modes, some of them are more widely used than others. Below, I will explain the effects and applications some commonly used ones:

(This is the original for reference)

Normal

The normal layer mode is the default. In this mode, the color is simply placed on top of the layers below, so it is most often used for coloring.

Screen

The screen layer mode multiplies the lighter colors of the current layer and the layers below, which results in a lighter color. This layer mode is best for adding highlights.

Multiply

The multiply layer mode is the opposite of the screen layer mode, as multiplies the darker colors of the current layer and the layers below. Notice how the dark pink area is still transparent: this makes the multiply layer ideal for shading, as the drawing underneath is unchanged. Lighter colors are generally recommended for this layer mode, as darker colors will darken the drawing to the point where the subjects may not be recognizable.

Lighten

The lighten layer mode compares the colors of the current layer and the layers below, and lightens areas. This layer mode can be used for lighting.

Darken

The darken layer mode is the opposite of the lighten layer mode; areas are darkened instead. However, unlike the multiply layer mode, the contrast under the pink area is decreased, which is not as ideal for shading. However, it is great for simulating alcohol based markers.

Overlay

The overlay layer mode is a combination of the screen and multiply layer modes. The darker colors will be darkened and the lighter colors can be lightened. This mode can be used in adding contrast to artwork or adjusting the colors of a piece.

Color Dodge

The color dodge layer mode heavily brightens the layers beneath it, creating an intense glowing effect and saturated mid-tones. However, due to the intensity of the this layer mode, it is generally not recommended for lighting (unless for overexposure) and reserved for glowing objects.

Color

As hinted in its name, this layer mode alters the colors of the layer below. It is used for coloring grayscale artworks or changing colors.

It is important to note that layer modes can be used in conjunction with each other to bring artwork to new heights! For example, mood is an important component in art, and lighting and color are especially important in establishing it. A scary, gloomy piece will have dark, muted colors. On the other hand, a happier and warmer piece will have bright, more saturated colors. The addition of layer modes can help in conveying different moods more efficiently. Here, I adjusted a landscape study I did recently:

For the top picture, I added a dull purple multiply layer and a light purple color layer. And for the bottom picture, I added an orange overlay and an orange screen layer. As you can see, layer modes can change a drawing drastically. So, when doing digital art, feel free to experiment with different combinations and colors! The resulting effects can be very interesting!