Photoshop’s Neural Filters are AI wizards that automate complex edits, but pairing them with Smart Objects takes it further- enabling non-destructive tweaks, layer masking, and batch automation for pro workflows.
In this tutorial, we’ll convert portrait layers to Smart Objects, apply neural filters like Skin Smoothing, and automate across multiple images.
What You’ll Need
- Adobe Photoshop (2025 version for enhanced AI cloud processing)
- Sample images (e.g., 3-5 portraits with varying skin tones for practice)
Step 1: Open Your Images and Prepare Layers
Launch Photoshop and open your portrait images via File > Open. For each, duplicate the Background layer (Ctrl+J / Cmd+J) to work non-destructively. Name it “Portrait Edit” in the Layers panel.
Step 2: Convert to Smart Object
Select the duplicated layer, then right-click in the Layers panel and choose “Convert to Smart Object.” This embeds the layer, allowing AI filters to be edited later without rasterising.
Step 3: Access Neural Filters
With the Smart Object selected, go to Filter > Neural Filters. In the panel, toggle on “Skin Smoothing” (or download if needed). Have a play with the blur and smoothness settings:
Step 4: Apply as Smart Filter
In the Neural Filters Output settings (bottom of the panel), select “Smart Filter.” Click OK – Photoshop applies the AI edit as an editable filter layer. Double-click the “Neural Filter” entry in the Layers panel to tweak settings anytime.
Step 5: Add Masking for Precision
In the Layers panel, the Smart Filter auto-generates a mask. Select the mask thumbnail, grab the Brush Tool (B), set foreground to black (Opacity 50%), and paint over areas like eyes or hair to reveal the original. This refines the AI effect non-destructively.
Step 6: Automate Across Multiple Images
You can record the above steps and save it as a new action for batch-processing multiple images. To do so, go to Window > Actions and set up a recording. Then, go to File > Automate > Batch. Set Source to “Folder” (where your images are stored), select the action you created and Destination to a folder of your choice.
Run it – Photoshop will process all files uniformly.
Step 7: Finalise and Export
Review edits by toggling Smart Filter visibility in the Layers panel. Save as PSD for layers, then File > Export > Export As for JPGs. For cloud sync, enable Creative Cloud Libraries.
Pro Tips
- Cloud Boost: In 2025, Neural Filters use Sensei cloud AI – ensure internet for faster processing on complex batches.
- Layer Comps: Use Layer > Layer Comps to snapshot filter variations for client approvals.
- Fallback: If AI over-smooths, blend modes like Overlay on the Smart Filter layer add texture.
Conclusion
Neural Filters alone are powerful, but Smart Objects make them reusable and scalable – saving hours on repetitive tasks like portrait retouching.