How many do you have?

[inkworm]

When you have multiple profiles to do of a type, for example an Albatros or F-104 do you create a new file for each profile (if they are the same variant) or create a new photoshop file for each profile?

Just curious about other working practices.

[gamary]

I start by creating a template in PS. From this, I can make the individual profiles. For every new profile I create, I export it in high-rez .jpg, and also keep the original PSD file, which I archive in .rar compressed format. This way, I can go back to it if I need to.

[Supah]

Generally for each significant subvariant a different file. Sometimes also multiple files of the same subvariant if it has a lot of paintschemes to keep loading times down.

[inkworm]

That makes sense but say you're doing a few Harrier GR3s from 1,3,4 & 20 Sqn (for example) would you just use the one file and then change the markings/colours for each respective a/c? Turning on and off layers as required?

[Supah]

Yep if it is all the same basic variant, put the layers for each marking in groups making them easier to manage. Why all the entry level questions all of a sudden Inky?

[inkworm]

I was just wondering, one of those things, as we all do things slightly differently and it is interesting to compare working methods from time to time. It is how I do things, few layer groups and lots of vector paths.

[gamary]

Yep if it is all the same basic variant, put the layers for each marking in groups making them easier to manage.

Especially for WW2 aircraft, I find there are almost always differences even within a same production block. I have a separate PSD file for every profile.

In addition, since I'm using a low-end computer, I try to limit file size as much as possible. Adding unused groups of layers for markings wouldn't make sense in my case. I have more HD space than PC power.

[Jesters-Ink]

12 of each type, just because it works well for most things like website etc.

[GiantFlyingRobots]

The problem for me is working out when a profile is done to my satisfaction.

Ive got dozens of 'finished' P-51 paint schemes that I have junked after deciding to rework the original .Psd. Resulting in a file with 3200 layers as it stands right now, countless numbers of those have been deleted.

If I ever get to the stage of being satisfied (seems kinda doubtful) I'll use the single .Psd template for each new scheme.

[BLOWHARD]

Too many There are always stupid little details that require stupid major changes in the details and shading, and they're always those one-off things. So, too many PSDs
I do try to get by with the most schemes/individual planes on the lest amount of PSD files though.