Different types of selection

[CPP]

I was trying to create a collage and found that if I copied and pasted images onto a common background by selecting with Cmd-A and then Cmd-C I could paste them in as separate layers but then if I tried to resize them this also resized all other layers in the collage. Then I watched the “Creating a Composition” tutorial in which I noticed photos were selected using the Move tool and then pasted onto the background. This allowed the images to be resized separately without affecting other layers.

 

This solved my immediate problem with how to create collages, including how to contain images within a predefined template by using clipping masks, but also gave me the questions:

 

1. What is the difference between creating a pixel selection with Cmd-A versus selecting using the Move tool?
2. Why if I use the Move tool can I then resize pasted in images separately without affecting other layers whereas I cannot if I paste in a pixel selection?

 

By the way as someone still climbing up the Affinity learning curve I commend to other learners the “Creating a Composition” tutorial for a number of other useful pieces of information it provided, which I had not known before, such as:

 

1. How to restrict a layer adjustment to just one layer
2. How to apply a layer adjustment and then to reduce the areas to which it is applied using the Erase Brush tool

[Leigh]

What is the difference between creating a pixel selection with Cmd-A versus selecting using the Move tool?

 

CMD+A will select everything from the layer or group you have selected. Using the Move tool allows you to select all layers and groups in one go.

 

Why if I use the Move tool can I then resize pasted in images separately without affecting other layers whereas I cannot if I paste in a pixel selection?

 

Do you mean that you're unable to move the pasted image with the move tool when there is a selection on the page?

[CPP]

Thanks Leigh.

 

I was trying to resize pasted images by using the Resize Document menu which of course resized all layers; by using the Move tool instead I can resize just the pasted image which is what I want.