If you want to preserve the original image data while editing photographs, what kind of editing should you use?

• A. Destructive editing
• B. Non-destructive editing
• C. Rasterize edits
• D. Merge layers

Answer: (B)

Preserving the original image data while editing relies on keeping edits separate from the original pixels. This is non-destructive editing. By using adjustment layers, masks, or smart objects, you apply changes without permanently altering the underlying image. You can tweak or remove those edits later, and the original data remains intact.

Destructive editing changes the actual pixel data, so once you apply and save, you lose the ability to revert to the original image easily. Rasterizing edits converts edits to pixels, making them permanent and less flexible. Merging layers flattens all edits into one layer, eliminating the ability to adjust individual elements separately. That’s why non-destructive editing is the best choice when you want to preserve the original image data.