Photoshop files (PSDs) can be huge in file size, especially if you are working on a large format high resolution file. Here’s a quick tip that can save you valuable HD space, anywhere between 10% – 90%, simply by turning off layer previews when you save.
Before you save
It’s best to organise your layers in groups and delete any unwanted layers before you save. This isn’t a crucial step but it can drastically reduce the size of the PSD when saved. To do this header on over to the layers palette, click the icon in the top right corner and click ‘Delete Hidden Layers’ (shown below).
Turn layers off
Now that your layers are tidy and organised it makes this next step easier. To the left of each layer you should be able to see an icon of an eye (shown bottom left image), simply click on each eye icon to hide the layers (shown bottom right image).
Compare file sizes
In theory the PSD with layers hidden should be smaller in file size than the same file but with layers shown. The graphic below is an illustration showing the same PSD with and without layers shown. In this case the file with layers hidden is over 50% smaller in file size than the same file showing the layers.
Is it right for you?
In most cases yes. Personally I use the approach on backup versions of a design only. I tend to keep the layers in an active working copy shown for speed. If I get to version filename-01F however, I’ll use this approach in all previous files, A through to E. Finally once the project is finished I will ZIP up the folder, after erasing all unnecessary layers and archive them away. On one project alone I ran through 13 PSD versions and saved a total of 2.3GB in disk space with this technique.
If you have any questions please feel free to leave them in the comments below, I’d be more than happy to answer them.
December 15th, 2009 at 9:41 am
Very good info for anyone wanting to save on disc space.
December 16th, 2009 at 10:38 pm
Thanks for that tip, I must say I had no idea about the file size difference and am very surprised.
Reading about your file naming conventions and organised workflow I need to hang my head in shame and tidy my files up, I am really not that organised!
December 16th, 2009 at 10:49 pm
Hi Jim. I must say it’s only recently I addressed my workflow and file naming conventions. I find it a lot easier now when a visual has several renditions to identify where I’m at and how far a design has come, along with having previous design backups in case a client back tracks at all. I feel another article coming on
December 16th, 2009 at 10:52 pm
Oh yes, the curse of the headless chicken client! I know it well, and in fact I am dealing with one at the moment!
December 16th, 2009 at 10:57 pm
The start of all new projects is like a game of Jenga, you start each new project with renewed confidence that this one isn’t gonna fall down like the rest, then at the point half way through the game when you think all is going to plan down it goes.
December 16th, 2009 at 10:58 pm
LOL, love the analogy, I am going to write that one down!