Feature request: Ability to update PSD files with new layers.

I am going to feature request from Apple that a PSD file have the ability in FCP X to update when a new layer is added to that file.

From what I understand and through my own testing, this is not currently possible. You van only edit/update pre-existing layers in a PSD file being used in FCP X.

If any of you feel this is something worth while as I do, please make a feature request. Frankly, I'm really surprised and dismayed that this isn't already the way it should. work.

Jonathan

You could make a compound clip of the psd, and then add whatever layers you want to it that way.

Hi Jonathan,

As I mentioned in a similar thread this is something that you cannot do in Premiere either:
www.fcp.co/forum/4-final-cut-pro-x-fcpx/...te-in-fcp-x?start=20

When you add a layer to a PSD file that is used in a Pr project the existing file goes offline and you cannot relink to the new file. If Adobe cannot even handle this between their own applications I think you cannot expect FCP X to magically achieve this.

The workaround proposed by Adobe is to save the updated PSD as a new file, import it and replace the old file with the new one; or to export the added layer as a separate file and manually add it to your timeline. In FCP X you also can add it to the PSD in its own timeline.

- Ronny

Hi Darren and Ronny!

As I was sending request I actually wondered if PSD files updated in Pr, since both are from same family and you answered that, thanks.

I am certainly no programmer but find myself wondering what problem (even within Adobes own apps) would prevent one from being able to create new layer in existing file structure and have it update in other program.

It's got to be something big, but trying to get my head around this since you can alter file in a number of other ways.

So for now what makes the most sense is to create additional layers, add a single pixel of something in a corner and work that way as was suggested in the other "image not updating thread.

Thanks for the input as always

Hi Jonathan,

It's a problem within the PSD layer structure itself. Adding layers to the PSD after you have imported it does not work at all. If you add extra layers before you import the PSD, this only works if the layers have pixel information inside them (as Andreas said: one pixel is enough).

As there is no problem with updating information in an existing layer this seems to be the easiest workaround for now. It's something that needs to be addressed by Adobe. But as the problem has been known for many years I don't expect a solution very soon.

- Ronny

I actually quit using PS(CS4) and switched to Pixelmator, but…
I wonder if with Yosemite's extensibility you might be able to add layers/ effects without round-tripping??
Adobe would need to update and add in the code. Not sure if even then it would work as it may be a coding issue that sets # of layers upon export.
I do hope that Apple adds extensibility to Motion and Logic. Mini round tripping w/o having to open, change/add, then replace in FCPX. Not a solution to true round-tripping, but for altering/adding a Motion setting that wasn't published, would come in very handy.
Will Pixelmator add this? Hope so. Pixelmator seems way more responsive to user requests than Adobe.
Apples new Photos seems to have a long way to go according to early reports. Like FCPX, I think features will creep back in over time. Keeping Aperture.
My comment sort of crosses this thread and the 10.1.4 features wanted.
Wooden nickel's worth.
Hope this helps, Greg

I wonder if with Yosemite's extensibility you might be able to add layers/ effects without round-tripping??

What exactly do you mean by 'roundtripping' in this case?

When I add a layered.psd to a project, and edit it in FCPX; then, in Pixelmator, add a layer to this psd, drag that new version onto the existing 'clip' in the timeline, it is updated - double-clicking the clip shows the extra layer... and by dragging it onto the first version, it does keep all settings (edits, animations...)

??

Or do you want to add the layer in FCPX?? .. but then: How do you 'paint' in FCPX on that layer? :ohmy:

and, no, I'm not using Yosemite...