Hiding layers saves space because it means that programs no longer have to draw whatever is on them, this is all well and good for transfering files and wanting to save space, but if you have PSDs placed into an InDesign document, you can’t just flip layers off to save space. Things like that get transfered into the layout programs and it means you have to turn them back on.

Bottom line: if you want to save space when sending files use a tiff image instead. It’s less hassle than managing what could end up being 30 some layers, and it prevents problems later on with visibility in other programs.

Like I say in the article keeping the original files in PSD format in my opinion is much more comfortable than working with TIFF files.

Anyway the KEY of the article is the bad compression of PSD files… then you can use the tip if its useful.

Thanks for sharing your opinion, much appreciated.

You get the same effect when you flatten an image that only has one layer (i.e. you’re turning “layer 1″ into “Background layer”).

This will never be “fixed”, as the composite is required for compatibility, but yours is a good solution for ftp, as you describe.

If you are right, and we are “deleting” the composite image then the file would be lighter but we would lost the features (ie: allows other software to use the psd without having to flatten it first or having to create a composite image from individual layers)

But it really happens? If it happens I guess you are right, if not why the hell we need a feature like this?

It probably still makes sense to zip or rar the files, as that also makes the files less prone to break when sending over an ftp connection or by mail.

I guess compression could be more effective but it would also make saving a lot slower.

Flatten all layers and save it as a BMP
yes, you lose everything including text editing, etc, but image is saved as lossless pic.

the psd can b saved seperately for only editing purposes

for guyz working with 100meg+ filez ,
dude its WORTH the Space it takez

Photoshop Rulez

Peace ya all