A Practical Guide to Layered File Handover
Delivering editable layered files to clients or other studios.
Imogen Clarke
What is at stake
Layered files only help if someone else can understand them, which depends on naming and structure.
The playbook
- Name and group layers meaningfully
- Keep adjustments as editable layers
- Embed or supply linked assets
- Note fonts used and their licensing
- Flatten only for final outputs
Where it goes wrong
Avoid:
- Layers named Layer 12 copy
- Flattened files delivered as editable
- Missing linked assets
- Fonts shared against license terms
The numbers behind it
| Measure | Figure |
|---|---|
| Layer naming | unnamed layers make files unusable |
| Groups | structure communicates intent |
| Smart objects | keep source assets editable |
| Fonts and links | must be available to the recipient |
Getting outside help
When to hand it over: Bring in help when files move between teams.
Where this comes from
- Adobe Help Center — Photoshop User Guide
- Adobe Help Center — Adobe Fonts licensing
The figures and practices above come from the sources listed.
Working on something like this?
We take on Image Editing & Retouching work for teams who want it done once, properly. Tell us what you are building and we will tell you honestly whether we are the right studio for it. Start a project.
Where to go next
Spotted something wrong? Report an error on this page. We correct on the page and say what changed.
