Selections - Adobe Photoshop Elements 11 for Photographers - page 271

Subtracting from a selection
Another way to modify existing selections or masks is to remove parts of the selection or
erase sections of the mask. To remove sections from an existing selection hold down the Alt
key (Option - Macintosh) whilst selecting the part of the picture you do not wish to include
in the selection. When in the subtract mode the cursor will change to include a '-'.

Step-by-step subtracting from a selection:
Follow these steps to remove picture parts from your selection.

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Create a Selection First:
Again this is a feature for modifying existing masks or
selections. So the first step is to create a selection or
mask on the image.

Use Alt/Opt key to Subtract from a Selection:
Once the Selec tion or Mask has been created, holding
down the Alt/Opt keys will switch the Selection or
Adjustment Brush tool to the Subtract From or Erase
mode. Using the tool in this mode will remove sections
of the mask or selection.

Intersecting selections

When you are trying to isolate picture parts with complex edges it is sometimes quicker
and easier to make two separate selections and then form the final selection based on their
intersection. Often the quickest route to selection perfection is not the most direct route.
Alongside New, Add To and Subtract From, the fourth Selection mode available as a button
on the option bar is the Intersect mode. Although not used often, this mode provides you
with the ability to define a selection based on the area in common between two different
selections.

Step-by-step creating a selection from intersecting selections:
Follow these steps to create a new selection from the intersection of two different selections.

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Create the first Selection:
Start by using on of the Selection tools from
Photoshop Elements to create an initial
selection. Now choose the selection tool that
you will use to create a second selection.

Switch to Intersect Mode:
Next, switch to the Intersect With mode by
holding down the Shift and Alt/Opt keys.
Notice that the tool's cursor has the addition
of a small X indicating that it is now in the
Intersect mode.

Create the Second Selection:
Now create the second selection, keeping in
mind that it will only be the overlapping par ts
of both first and second selections that will
remain when you release the mouse button.