An AI-generated image is a single flat picture, so changing one element usually means regenerating the whole thing. On the Lunart canvas, Split layers separates an image into independent layers such as the person, the product, the headline and the background. You can then rearrange them on the canvas or Export PSD and keep editing in Photoshop.
Step by step
- Put the image on the canvas. Use one you just generated, upload one from your device, or drag a file onto the canvas.
- Select the image and click Split layers.
- Describe what to separate (optional). Leave it empty to split out the main elements automatically, or be specific: "separate the person, the product and the headline text".
- Choose the layer count. Auto estimates the right number and shows it as "Recommended: N layers". Custom lets you pick from 2 to 17 layers, including the base layer.
- Check the credit cost and confirm. Busy images can take a few minutes; you can keep working on the canvas in the meantime.
- Review the result. The layers are placed on the canvas, stacked so they look exactly like the original. Select the stack and the layer panel lists every layer, with a show/hide toggle for each, so you can check what went where.
- Export the PSD. Click the PSD button in the layer panel. Your browser downloads a PSD file in which each layer is its own Photoshop layer. Hidden layers are left out of the export.
- Moved things around by accident? In the conversation history on the right, click Place on canvas to lay the layers out again in their original positions, at no cost.
How many layers to choose
| Image type | Suggested layers |
|---|---|
| A single product on a plain background | 2 to 3 |
| A poster with a person, text and background | 4 to 6 |
| A busy scene or a collage | Auto, or 8 or more |
More layers is not always better. With too many, one object can be cut into several pieces; with too few, separate objects end up merged on one layer. If you are unsure, start with Auto.
What you can do with the layers
- Swap the background. Hide the original background layer and put a newly generated one behind your subject.
- Fix or replace text. Delete the layer with the AI-generated lettering and set the type yourself in Photoshop, in your brand font.
- Re-lay out for other sizes. Move and scale the product and the person independently to build banners, social posts and Amazon or Shopify listing images from one design.
- Prepare motion graphics. A layered PSD can go straight into After Effects or similar tools for parallax animation.
Cost
- The credit cost of a split is shown before you confirm it.
- If a split fails, the credits are returned automatically.
- Place on canvas and Export PSD do not cost anything.
PSD export tips
- Exporting from the layer panel exports the whole stack. You can also select images on the canvas and use Export PSD in the toolbar; that requires at least 2 images to be selected.
- Exports with many layers take a moment. Wait for the download to finish.
- Need just one element rather than a PSD? Select that layer and download it on its own. Each layer is a PNG with a transparent background.
Layer split or Remove background?
If all you need is one subject on a transparent background, Remove background is faster; see how to remove a background with AI. Use Split layers when you want to edit several elements separately or hand a layered file to a designer.
To try it, open Lunart, drag an image onto the canvas and click Split layers.