Photoshop layer masks control the transparency of the layer they are “worn” by. In other words, the areas of a layer that are hidden by a layer mask actually become transparent, allowing image information from lower layers to show through. To use a simple analogy, Photoshop layer masks work similar to masquerade ball masks.
Layer masks let you reveal or hide parts of a layer without using the Eraser tool, which is a destructive method for image editing. Start by selecting the layer you want to work on, then press the Layer Mask button. You’ll see the mask appear beside the original image. By default, the mask is white, meaning it’s visible.
While working with masking in Photoshop, it is useful to learn some shortcuts that will radically save your time. All these shortcuts involve clicking on the mask’s thumbnail first. Alt/Option – allows you to enter or exit Mask view. Shift – allows disabling or enabling Mask view.
How do you make a quick mask in Photoshop?
When using a painting or editing tool in Quick Mask mode, keep these principles in mind: Painting with black adds to the mask (the red overlay) and decreases the selected area. Painting with white erases the mask (the red overlay) and increases the selected area. Painting with gray partially adds to the mask.
In Photoshop, a Layer Mask is the best way to hide and reveal certain parts of a layer. To add a Mask to a layer, first you must select the respective layer and then click on the Mask button. You may find the button in the bottom area of the layer`s section. You`ll notice that in the right side of the layer will appear a thumbnail.
What is a mask and how does it work?
This type of mask uses the content and transparency of the bottom layer in order to control the visibility of the layer above. To be precise, the layer below is the mask itself, while the upper layer is the one that is clipped to the base layer.
How to add black to the layer mask in Photoshop?
In order to add black to the layer mask, just paint over the image in the document window. Black color on the layer mask conceals the mask layer. That is why it is possible to see the layer just below or the transparent checkerboard background. Change the Foreground Color to White.