Background vs. Layer 0

<p>Opening a file from ACR into PS6 I sometimes see that the layer is called "Background" and sometimes it's "Layer 0." Is that an issue? What's the difference?<br>

Thanks.</p>

<p>The background layer -- if it's the only layer -- is typically locked. Once you unlock the layer via a variety of methods, it become an editable layer.</p>

<p>The bkgnd layer is more limited (locked, unable to be named other than background, can't move contents with move tool, lacks transparency, etc). </p>

<p>I know about the background layer being locked. But how and why does ACR "decide" (like HAL?) which it gives me. It may not be important other than in a PS trivia quiz.</p>

<p>I just opened a RAW image two ways -- from within Bridge and by using the Open command in Photoshop to open in ACR. In both instances, it resulted in a locked Background layer. Maybe check your settings/preferences to see if there's something there that impacts output of the file from ACR.</p>

<p>The default behavior is always a bkgnd layer. I've never seen Layer 1 present itself from ACR/LR or for that matter without manually making it a non bkgnd layer. </p>

<p>I have never used ACR, I use Lightroom, but is it possible that you sometimes are holding the alt or ctrl key while executing the open image command resulting in this different behaviour?</p>

<p>When holding the "Alt" key, whilst opening the picture from ACR, you will obtain the picture as "Smart object" in Photoshop proper. Actually, this is my preferred way of opening. "Smart objects" are not loaded as background layer and can be manipulated as any old layer.</p>