What is a Smart Filter and how do you apply it to a Smart Object?

What is a Smart Filter and how do you apply it to a Smart Object?

• A. A Smart Filter is a non-destructive filter attached to a Smart Object; apply by converting a layer to a Smart Object and choosing Filter > [type], which appears as a filter mask under the Smart Object.
• B. A Smart Filter is a permanent raster effect applied to any layer.
• C. Smart Filters can only be used with text layers.
• D. Smart Filters apply only at export time.

Answer: (A)

Smart Filters are non-destructive filters attached to a Smart Object, so applying them doesn’t permanently alter pixels. To use one, you first convert the layer to a Smart Object (right-click the layer and choose Convert to Smart Object, or use Layer > Smart Objects > Convert to Smart Object). Then apply a filter via Filter > [type]. The result becomes a Smart Filter that sits under the Smart Object in the Layers panel, and you can tweak the filter’s settings, hide or reveal it, reorder multiple filters, and add a mask to control where the effect applies. This approach keeps edits flexible and reversible, which is why it’s the best description of how Smart Filters work. The other statements aren’t accurate: it isn’t a permanent raster effect, it isn’t limited to text layers, and it isn’t restricted to export time.

Smart Filters are non-destructive filters attached to a Smart Object, so applying them doesn’t permanently alter pixels. To use one, you first convert the layer to a Smart Object (right-click the layer and choose Convert to Smart Object, or use Layer > Smart Objects > Convert to Smart Object). Then apply a filter via Filter > [type]. The result becomes a Smart Filter that sits under the Smart Object in the Layers panel, and you can tweak the filter’s settings, hide or reveal it, reorder multiple filters, and add a mask to control where the effect applies. This approach keeps edits flexible and reversible, which is why it’s the best description of how Smart Filters work. The other statements aren’t accurate: it isn’t a permanent raster effect, it isn’t limited to text layers, and it isn’t restricted to export time.