Real-time AI collaboration in Photoshop is revolutionising how teams create, edit, and refine designs together. With Adobe’s Live Co-Editing (introduced in a private beta in January 2025), multiple users can work on a single cloud document simultaneously, using AI-powered tools to streamline workflows and spark creativity.
Whether you’re a designer, photographer, or educator, this feature—paired with tools like Generative Fill and Distraction Removal—makes teamwork faster and more intuitive. In this tutorial, we’ll guide you through setting up and using Photoshop AI collaboration, perfect for your next Photoshop project. Let’s dive in!
What You’ll Need
- Adobe Photoshop (2025 beta version for Live Co-Editing access)
- Creative Cloud subscription with cloud storage
- A sample image (e.g., a portrait for team retouching)
- Stable internet connection
Step 1: Save Your Project as a Cloud Document
Open Photoshop and load your image. Go to File > Save As and select “Save to cloud documents”. This ensures real-time syncing for all collaborators.
- Screenshot Recommendation: Show the Save As dialogue with “Cloud Document” selected, highlighting the file name field.
Step 2: Enable Live Co-Editing
Click the Share button (top-right corner of Photoshop). Select “Invite to Edit” and enter collaborators’ email addresses. Send invitations via the generated link. Collaborators can join via Photoshop desktop, web, or iPad (web requires no subscription for commenting).
You can also share your file for review and gain feedback from client or collaborators:
The same functions can also be found under the “File” menu:
Step 3: Use AI Tools for Team Edits
With collaborators in the document, leverage Photoshop’s AI tools:
- Distraction Removal: Use the Remove Tool (
J) to erase unwanted objects (e.g., a background sign). Brush over the object, and AI fills the area seamlessly. - Generative Fill: Select an area with the Lasso Tool (
L), right-click, and choose “Generative Fill.” Enter a prompt like “add a sunset sky” and pick the best AI-generated result. - Selection Brush: Paint precise selections with adjustable opacity for masking complex subjects like hair.
Each user’s edits sync instantly, visible to all. - Screenshot Recommendation: Split image—before with a distracting object, after with Distraction Removal applied, plus the Generative Fill dialogue open.
Below is a couple of example of AI generated artworks:
Step 4: Add Real-Time Feedback
Collaborators can pin comments to specific layers or areas via the Comments panel. For example, a client might note, “Soften skin here.” Non-editors (e.g., stakeholders) can comment via a browser link, streamlining approvals.
Step 5: Manage Versions and Finalise
Check version history in File > Version History to revert unwanted changes. Once satisfied, save the .PSDC and export as a PNG or JPG for sharing. Compare the final edit to the original by toggling layers.
Why Use Photoshop AI Collaboration?
Live Co-Editing outshines older features like Invite to Edit, which allowed only one editor at a time. With AI tools, teams can:
- Save Time: Distraction Removal and Generative Fill automate tedious tasks.
- Boost Creativity: Real-time experimentation with AI prompts inspires bold ideas.
- Streamline Feedback: Instant comments cut down on email chains.
For more AI magic, explore our Generative Fill tutorial to enhance your collaborative edits.
Limitations and Considerations
- Cloud Dependency: Requires a stable internet connection and Creative Cloud storage, which may be a hurdle for users with local-only workflows or limited bandwidth.
- Learning Curve: Teams new to Photoshop’s AI tools may need time to master features like Selection Brush or Generative Fill for collaborative edits.
- Subscription Cost: Full access to Photoshop’s AI and collaboration features requires a Creative Cloud subscription, unlike free tools like Google Docs.
Pro Tips
- Assign Roles: One user handles masking, another applies filters, to avoid overlap.
- Test AI Prompts: Experiment with Generative Fill prompts (e.g., “futuristic city”) for unique results.
- Check Beta Access: Sign up for the beta at Adobe’s blog to try Live Co-Editing.
Final Thoughts
Photoshop AI collaboration via Live Co-Editing is a game-changer for teams and creators. Whether you’re retouching photos, designing composites, or teaching workshops, real-time editing with AI tools like Distraction Removal and Generative Fill makes your workflow seamless.