Photoshop Image Masking

 

What is image masking?

Image masking is one of the advanced level of editing. It is a non-destructive, effective and creative process of background removing. In case of complex image when there are furry sweaters, stuffed animal with fur, fuzzy edges or hair on a model, etc in the image and you have to remove the background from it. It is hard to do and you need practice and experience to make it work. A professional editor can do it easily and fast like it is nothing because he or she has been practicing a lot to make themselves able. Different types of images need different types of masking techniques. There are mainly 3 types of image masking which used depending on the image provided. They are, Layer masking, Clipping Mask and Alpha Channel Masking.

Importance of image masking

Non-Destructive Technique- Masking is a non-destructive way to remove or change image background. You can just come back and turn back any part visible or invisible again. It is really helpful for image editing services.

Removing Background from Complex Images- If you have any history with working in Photoshop then you will notice that it is very difficult to clip out an area behind hair or some furry area. You can’t possibly use clipping path on every single hair or fur and remove background. Image masking is thus important.

To Modify an Area of a Picture­- Wanting to modify a random area in a picture. You can just make a mask to make that portion visible and then change it to your liking.

Advantage with Translucent Objects- You can use masking to remove or replace the background of translucent objects. If you have something like glass or some kind of clothing with transparency, then you can apply masking to do it more easily.

Making Collage Images- There are many possibilities and styles of collage by using image masking.

Tips for faster Masking

Making a mask can be time consuming and you may not have much time on your hand. Here are some tips to make things faster.

High-contrast layer as background layer- While working on any kind of mask add a high contrast layer beneath the image you are working on. This will show your loopholes and define edge.

Magic Wand Tool Usage- You can save time by using magic want tool to select your subject and remove the background.

Auto Background Removal- If you are using Photoshop 2020 or later versions then you can just go the image properties and just remove background with one click which enables you to mask more efficiently.

Quick Selection tool- With its controllable brush size without having a tolerance like the magic wand tool it can be pretty useful for saving some time.

Refine Edge- Refine Edge can be used for fine tuning the mask.

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