Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
Adding Layer Masks
The best way to learn about Layer Masks is to jump right in and
create one. You'll start with an easy image, but one that will help
illustrate the important concepts. Let's get started.
1.
Open the file Ch07_Mask_Start.tif from the Chapter 7 folder.
2.
To ma sk t he i ma ge, you'll l l need t To conver t t he
Background
layer
into a floating layer. Double-click the layer name in the Layers
panel. Name the layer Tower.
3.
Select the Quick Selection tool from the Tools panel.
4.
Make a selection of the blue sky.
5.
Reverse the selection by choosing Select > Inverse. The
building is now selected.
6.
Click the Refine Edge button in the Options bar.
The Refine Edge dialog box opens. Here you can adjust the
selection as well as create a mask.
7.
Select the Smart Radius check box and adjust the Radius slider
to refine the edge of the selection.
8.
From the Output To menu, choose Layer Mask and click OK.
A new mask is added to
the layer.
9.
To ma ke it ea s ier it To see it he edges of it he border, pla ce a sol id
color layer behind the Tower layer. Choose Layer > New Fill
Layer > Solid Color and click OK. Choose a color that is not in
the image, such as green.
10.
Drag the fill layer below the Tower layer in the Layers panel.
11.
Depending on the accuracy of your initial selection, your mask
may be usable as is. If needed, you can quickly touch it up
using the Brush tool.
