How can you apply a filter to a specific layer in Photoshop?

Applying a filter to a specific layer in Photoshop can be achieved by first selecting the layer you wish to modify and then using the Filter menu to choose and apply the desired filter. This direct approach allows you to easily enhance or alter that specific layer without affecting other layers in the project.

For instance, if you want to apply a blur effect to a background layer while keeping the foreground layer intact, selecting the background layer and applying the filter ensures that only that layer is impacted by the changes. This method is efficient and gives you the precision needed to control how each element of your design looks, without altering anything unintentionally.

Other methods, such as using the brush tool with a filter effect, can be more complex and may not provide the same level of control over the layer itself. Combining layers before applying a filter can lead to unwanted results, as the filter would affect all combined layers rather than a single one. Duplicating the layer is an extra step; while it may be useful for experimentation, it is not necessary for simply applying a filter to a specific layer since this can be done directly through selection and the Filter menu.