Blending modes determine how pixel colors on the active layer mathematically interact with the pixels beneath them.
Darkening Modes
Multiply, Darken, Color Burn: Blends dark tones while making pure white completely transparent. Perfect for shadows and ink line art.
Lightening Modes
Screen, Lighten, Color Dodge: Highlights light tones while making pure black transparent. Ideal for glowing magic effects and lighting flares.
Contrast Modes
Overlay, Soft Light, Hard Light: Multiplies darks and screens lights simultaneously, boosting contrast and atmospheric depth.
Inversion Modes
Difference, Exclusion: Inverts color channels based on underlying brightness. Essential for technical alignment and psychedelic visuals.