When you import a multilayered graphic, you can import each layer as a separate object (a matte key or master clip). You can then manipulate individual layers like any other matte key or master clip. You can also import the graphic as a flattened image, or select the layers to import.

For example, a graphic artist might create a collage of still images, with a layer of text. The goal is to edit the collage into a sequence, building it up one image at a time, and then add the text.

The following illustration shows the graphics and layers in Photoshop.

The Avid system imports each layer as an individual matte key with alpha channel. In this example, the graphic uses a background image, so the system creates the background image as a master clip. (If the graphic used a transparent background, the background layer would be imported as a matte key.)

The following illustration shows the layers as they appear in a bin.

During the import, the Avid system creates a sequence with each layer on a separate video track; this makes it easy to edit all layers into the final sequence. This sequence preserves the names and order of the layers as created in the original Photoshop file, as shown in the following illustration.

You can then edit the tracks to build up to the full collage.

Note the following:

Not all layer options and types are supported for import (see Support for Photoshop Layer Options and Support for Photoshop Special Layer Types). For example, a title with a Drop Shadow and an Outer Glow effect would not keep these effects when imported. To preserve the effects in these layers, merge them in Photoshop (as described in the Photoshop documentation) and then import the file.

You can also preserve layer effects and the original structure of the file by importing the file in two stages: