Pixelmator Pro File Export

[jasnw]

I have a set of images that have been developed within Pixelmator Pro. I have been asked to provide these for use by people who are on both Windows and Linux systems. I want to provide files that have as much of the detail (like layers and such) that is in the normal .pxd files that can be input by other codes like Photoshop (and its relatives) and Gimp. Would an export as a Photoshop Document format (I'm assuming that will be a .psd file) be the best approach here?

 

[Herbert123]

Probably, yes. It depends on the PSD export and import functionality of each image editor how much of the original file's layers will transfer over, though. For example, text layers often do not survive as text or even vector layers, and are rasterized.

Layer effects, non-destructive filter and adjustment layer -- usually not a lot survives when a PSD file is opened in another image editor. It does depend a lot on the application in which the PSD file is opened, though: for example, PhotoLine and Affinity Photo do support various special layers.

Gimp's PSD import loses adjustment layers and text layers (converted to bitmap), CMYK is lost, etcetera. I read somewhere that even groups might not survive.

The only way to be certain is to test, test, test when sharing your files with others. Create a pipeline/workflow together that suits the team's requirements best.

 

[Herbert123]

Btw, if you only need to share a final flattened image file with others: as long as you pick an image file format that is lossless, supports the bit depth (8 bit, 16 bit, 32 bit) and image mode (RGB, CMYK) that is required you should be good.

 

[jasnw]

Thanks. I suspect my approach will be to identify a more platform-independent editor and tailor the organization of my Pixelmator-based setup to maximize the amount of information retained in any image transfers. And, as with all situations like this, trust (the app hype) but verify.