Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
video 30:
Quick Mask Mode
Tip
Saving and Reloading Selections
If you'd like to save your selection for later use, you need to create a chan-
nel. With an active selection made, choose Select > Save Selection. Name
the selection and click OK to save the selection as an alpha channel. Alpha
channels are simply saved selections that can be reloaded at a later time.
They are also stored with your document when you close the file (unlike a
quick mask, which is discarded when you exit the selection). Channels are
covered in greater depth in Chapter 7, “Layer Masking.”
Creating a Path with the Pen Tool
You c a n u s e t he Pe n t o ol t o c r e a t e p a t h s (ve c t or - b a s e d l i ne s
that you freely draw). Many users swear by the Pen tool, but be
warned: It's not the easiest tool to use. The Pen tool allows you
to click around the image, adding anchor points. Photoshop then
connects those points with vector lines, which can be adjusted or
resized. Those users coming to Photoshop from Adobe Illustrator
generally find the Pen tool relatively easy to use. Reading about
the Pen tool is very difficult; be sure to watch the video to see the
tool in operation.
