Import Multi-Layer PSD Files into Kdenlive

Importing multi-layered Photoshop (PSD) files into Kdenlive allows video editors to manipulate individual graphic elements directly within their video projects. This article provides a quick, step-by-step guide on how to prepare your PSD file, export its layers, and import them into Kdenlive so they can be edited independently on the timeline.

Step 1: Export the PSD Layers

Because Kdenlive does not natively split a PSD file into individual layers upon import, you must first export the layers as separate image files. The best format for this is PNG, as it preserves transparency.

  1. Open your document in Adobe Photoshop.
  2. Go to File > Export > Layers to Files.
  3. Choose a destination folder for your exported layers.
  4. Set the File Type to PNG and ensure Transparency is checked.
  5. Click Run to export each layer as an individual PNG file.

(Note: If you are using GIMP or another alternative editor, use the “Export Layers” plugin or equivalent feature to batch-export the layers to PNG.)

Step 2: Import the Layers into Kdenlive

Once your layers are saved as individual files, you can bring them into your Kdenlive project.

  1. Open your Kdenlive project.
  2. Right-click inside the Project Bin and select Add Clip or Folder.
  3. Navigate to the folder where you saved the exported PNG layers.
  4. Select all the layer files and click OK to import them.

Step 3: Reconstruct the Layers on the Timeline

To recreate the look of your original Photoshop document, you need to stack the layers on the timeline.

  1. Ensure you have enough video tracks in your timeline. If you need more tracks, right-click on the track headers and select Insert Track.
  2. Drag the bottom-most layer of your original PSD design onto the lowest video track (e.g., V1).
  3. Drag the subsequent layers onto the tracks above it (e.g., V2, V3, etc.) in the exact order they appeared in Photoshop.
  4. Align the clips on the timeline so they play simultaneously.

You can now apply transitions, effects, and keyframe animations to each layer independently.