Unravel Secrets of Photoshop Masking

Ordinarily, Photoshop masking has been a fixture tool of the earlier versions of the software. Used for determining the layers of transparency in a picture, the mask conceals one aspect of a composition, and/or reveals another part. Effects are used to make text or generate graphics as required by the client's brief. Too much contrast can hamper the quality of a picture. For example take a picture with one part showing a sunny side and a darker part on the other end. There is high contrast in this picture. The mask can be used to control the contrast of this picture. The color mask is needed to repair this picture to have a uniform quality. A compilation of masking layers usually gives the much-needed final result. Now is the time to move beyond the realm of only layer masking.  Try the technique of after effects. It is the latest to hit the graphic industry. Soon the professionals will be divided into those who apply after effects and those who are ignorant about it.  Already a sizable number of designers are using it along withPhotoshop masking. But not all editors who use Photoshop masking may try out after effects. And here is an interesting tale and a guide to unravel its secrets.

 

Imagine working on a digital image of a star hurtling down to earth breaking away from the universe. Normally, to create the fragments, drop shadow or reflective mirror effects would be used. They are fabulous to give a 2-d picture a 3-d look. The power of after effects can be more magical in such a case. Editors can use after effects after the initial edit on Photoshop masking has been done. Some animation and lively graphics can be added. When both are integrated, the final image can become a masterpiece on a PSD file. Creative exploration of the technique can produce dramatic effects. Most editors like to experiment and this is one trial an editor must try. It will only enhance his skills to produce better work. There are several tutorials that can add to his existing knowledge of graphics.

 

Understanding how Photoshop masking works is one of the most important needs for the designer. It is like getting a black belt certificate from the industry. By grasping the latest technological nuances, designers can make mind blowing movie posters, covers for cds, surreal graphics for digital art and also creative ad campaigns. Even website graphics can be mastered with the new secrets of latest Photoshop masking tools.

Masking is required for altering backgrounds of images. It removes the attention from the bad elements of the composition. The use of the color mask makes the main subject more focused. Graphic editors need to continue to update their graphic skills to get more clients. As new technology like after effects emerges, the chances of more images getting a brand-new look is conceivable. With competition being tough even online, the one who has a secret ace up his sleeve is able to get better opportunities to showcase his talent.

About the Author

Atiqur Sumon
Chief Executive, DTP & SEO Expert at Outsource Experts Ltd.
Photoshop Masking |Layer Masking |Color Mask

Multiplication of Image Masking Techniques by a Specialist

For some reason even professional photos make mistakes. Now these mistakes can be corrected on the editing table. Overexposure of a picture is one such mistake. Photoshop software has image masking techniques that a graphic specialist can use. Overexposure causes the picture to look light.  Areas, which have been overexposed, can be darkened one layer at a time. The specialist will first make several duplicates of the original to make the layer mask starting with the background. An even shade of tone can be made with image masking. The image tool is used in the layer. It will have default settings. The layer should be merged to show the final composite. The difference is glaring once the mask is applied. Application of one mask is simple. But when the actual subject is against a crowded backdrop then the task is little complex.

 

Another area where image masking is an invaluable tool is when two pictures need to be blended. Why two images is blended? The reasons differ from one client to another. The job of the specialist is to execute it rather than ask questions. For example there could be one picture of a garden. It needs a value addition. How can it be done? The best way is to add some flowers to it without making it look like the flowers are ‘planted'! It should look natural. The specialist will bring two images one of the garden and the other of a flower or flowers. If they have similar colors it is great or else the color match can also be done as an edit. Now this technique involves multiplication and not just layer masking.  New designers using other software (like Matlab) may not have the feature of multiplication like Photoshop has. A designer specializing in image masking can also create a new clipping path and a shape to the final composition. He is likely to put his analytical skills and create some samples to get the approval of the client. Once he gets the green signal he can continue the editing process. The flower, which needs to be planted, will be selected within a rectangle or oval shape. And the project has become to create a better garden. The other ways to get the same done is via filtering and extraction method too. Then layers and duplicates do all the twin wonders.

 

Experienced artists like to get the pictures in one format, so that the resolution does not differ. Clients are encouraged to experiment with the images they upload for editing. Fashion magazines, catalogues all have some image masking techniques that make the visuals interesting. The dilemma is the unlimited options for creating more appealing images. What's more the low costs do not deter the client from asking the specialist to exercise his skills. This is one reason why some service providers have a great tuning with their clients. The trend now to outsource the work to offshore companies has helped editing companies to produce better results forimage masking.  

About the Author

Atiqur Sumon
Chief Executive, DTP & SEO Expert at Outsource Experts Ltd.
Image Masking | Photoshop Masking | Layer Masking