Clipping Mask BasicsĪ clipping mask is created using two layers of a Photoshop image. To follow along as we explore clipping masks, watch the accompanying video. In the third article in the series, we consider the clipping mask feature, which is often incorrectly referred to as “clipping paths” and sometimes called a “clipping group.” This feature often is used to create text effects in which the text looks like it’s cut from a photo, but clipping masks have other uses that we’ll examine in a bit. Yet these tools provide smart and useful ways to perform various tasks in Photoshop, so they’re worthy of adding to your Photoshop skill list. In this series, Helen Bradley discusses some handy Photoshop tools that are often overlooked or misunderstood, either because they’re hidden away or because their use isn’t immediately apparent. Like this article? We recommend Like this article? We recommend Like this article? We recommend
TIFF format to retain the layers and layer masks for future editing. If you use a soft brush, the edges of the brush will apply shades of gray, partially hiding that part of the layer with the mask. Switching between black and white as you paint on a layer mask is a flexible way to fine-tune the mask edge. This adds white to the layer mask, bringing back into view corresponding areas of the masked layer.įine-tune the layer mask with black, white, and gray
If you want to use the sample file beyond this tutorial, you can purchase a license on Adobe Stock. This sample file is an Adobe Stock asset you can use to practice what you learn in this tutorial.