Layer Help

I want to create a memory mate type of template. I want to make the entire thing an 8x10 but want a layer the size of a 5x7 inside of that. I want the 5x7 layer to be able to drop a photo right into it and not have to resize the photo. I want to be able to move the photo around in the 5x7 layer and position it where I want. I don't know if this is making sense. I want a permanent blank 5x7 layer to drop a photo into without resizing the photo first. I know there is a technique or name for this, but I can figure out what it is?

Help Please, Jim

well, do you want the photo that you drop in to be 5x7. If not it can be achieved by creating a mask on a 8x10 layer, the viewable area of the layer will be 5x7 due to the mask. Therefore if you drop a photo into the masked layer it will be cropped to a 5x7 size.

http://duo.mszstudios.net/misc/1.gif

at the bottom of the layers pallete click add layer mask

http://duo.mszstudios.net/misc/2.gif

bring in the photo

http://duo.mszstudios.net/misc/3.gif

hit ctl + e and make sure you hit preserve layer mask when that dialog comes up

http://duo.mszstudios.net/misc/4.gif

i THINK that's what you wanted?

Your example looks like what I am trying to acheive, but maybe not quite? I want to create a 5x7 layer on a 8x10. I want to be able to drop in a 9x12 photo into the 5x7 layer and have it only show as a 5x7. So the 9x12 photo is only showing behind the 5x7 layer. I want to be able to move it around within the 5x7 layer to center it and get it into position I choose. I tried your method and could not duplicate it, don't know if you left out some steps? I want it to be usable for others to use and just drag a photo into the template. http://www.action-sports-photo.com/Posters/index.html go to the Jack Rosss Sports Print and you will see what I am looking for. The photos in this print will actually be just a grey mask, I need to be able to set the mask/layer to that set size and then be able to just drag and drop a photo into that layer. I want the photo to show inside the mask/layer. Thanks for your work in replying, it is much appreciated.

Jim

Ok, i'll try and make it a bit easier.

I made a quick template for you without the use of a mask this time...just so you get the idea of what to do. Change the red layer to the same colour as the background layer (in this case white) when you've finished moving the photo into position.

http://duo.mszstudios.net/misc/photo_template.psd

Hope that's what you wanted.

Great, thanks, that is what I am trying to acheive.... Very much appreciated.... Jim
I just can't dupliate the red layer?

well how i made that red layer was simply by making a selection (which should be 5x7 in your case) and then went: select >Invert, to invert the selection. I simply then filled it with red using the paint bucket.

I didn't know you could preserve a layer mask when merging layers - it always just rasterizes for me. Rasterizes vector masks, layer masks, layer styles, and text. I never see any dialog box I dont think ... ?

Thanks Guys, I was using a photo for my background and didn't want to paint it any color. I got it figured out. Thanks again for all your time spent helping me.. Jim