Trial version limitations

[MN Shutterbug]

Since my current photo editing program is years old, I decided to see how this one works. However, not all commands are working such as shadows/highlights, sharpening and blurring etc. The first time I played with it the dodging and burning nor the paintbrush worked but once I closed the program and reopened it, those particular commands cooperated. Are there specific ones that don't work with the trial version?

Edited February 8, 2021 by MN Shutterbug

[firstdefence]

Welcome to the forum @MN Shutterbug

The Trial is fully functional so everything should work, the issue might be the layer type. You can have a Photo with a (Image) layer and a (Pixel) layer, the latter is what you need to have. Right-clicking on the layer with the photo and select Rasterise. You should now be able to use the tools.

https://affinity.help/photo/English.lproj/pages/Layers/aboutLayers.html

[P_Monty]

I don't know if it's the same problem I have, but I keep forgetting to check which layer is selected before I do anything - so it goes something like:

open image > adjust levels > apply sharpening > get confused because the sharpening doesn't appear to do anything.

When I check, I realise that after the levels have been done, the levels layer is selected so, I'm applying sharpening to that layer, not the image.

If I either merge layers, or select the background image layer before sharpening, the sharpening works fine.

So, in my case - operator error

 

 

[firstdefence]

We all have days where the Numbskulls go on strike lol...

http://www.flashbackuniverse.com/blogImages/EnglishAnnuals/NumbskullsLarge.jpg

[MN Shutterbug]

Thanks guys. I assumed it was operator on my part also but just needed to be sure. It was all about layers. That isn't an issue with my old program unless I create a new layer. Everything has a learning curve so eventually I'll figure things out, or if not, you'll be hearing a lot from me. 😁

[firstdefence]

Look forward to it lol