Photoshop Image Masking

Image masking has many types of uses. Some advanced uses for background removal are discussed here. For soft edges of an image like human hair, furry clothes, doll etc. photo masking technique is applied in combination with the clipping path technique to remove or replace the background of the photo. For hard edges, clipping path technique is used; for the furry or soft edge, masking is used. In the situation, where it is not possible to grab more accurate details of soft edges with the clipping path technique alone, photo masking method is called upon to isolate the object from the background.

This is another method we apply for the product or object that has the closest colored background to that of object color. To separate the product from background with natural soft edges, we use Pen Tablet (Wacom). With this method, we can easily blend the hard area and the soft area. Accuracy of the product edge blending depends on the airbrush size and sketching pressure.

Layer Masking

High quality manual Photoshopping by hand. Masks are applied directly to layer using soft & refined edge with pen tablet. Use it to remove background or isolate object. Price may vary based on complexity & time needed.

Alpha channel Masking

Separating object from background, we save it as Alpha Channel to edit brightness, contrast, exposure, etc. later. Its file size is lighter for uploading/downloading. Single colored background is perfect for this photo masking.

Fur & Hair Masking

When clipping path technique is insufficient to refine an image containing fur and hair, we make use of the image masking technique. Fur and hair being smooth having soft edge, we apply masking to isolate fur and hair from the background of your image. In order to sharpen the image, we also resolve the exposure issues touching right from color, contrast, and brightness to bring the natural appearance.

Refine Edge Masking

When it comes to perfect selection, especially of objects with soft and smooth edge, refine edge is the go-to tool. But for initial selection, we use one of Photoshop’s selection tools like the Pen tool or Quick Selection tool. Then, we create a layer mask, modify the layer mask and finally, refine the edge mask. The tool enables us to represent stuff like fur, hair, blanket, doll, tree, etc. of an image more naturally.

Transparent object Masking

For transparent objects like glasses, bottles, glass jars, pure water, and lenses, selection with pen tool doesn’t ensure perfection. To isolate the transparent subject from the background of an image and use it in a compatible background, transparent image masking technique is second to none. This is a non-destructive method and also retains the color originality.

Translucent object Masking

The difference between transparent and translucent object lies in the clarity and visibility of the materials. Translucent objects allow partial amount of light to pass through and also partial image formation. We apply translucent image masking in images containing frosted glass, sunglasses, tinted window, wax paper, etc. to segregate the subject from the backdrop retaining the maximum quality.

Object Masking

In Object masking, the unsuitable part of an image is selected with the quick selection tool and then removed by applying masking using the layer mask. Object masking is very much useful for removing deformations of images.

Color Masking

To avoid the hollow line, cutting an image just across the edge or outline instead of 1 or 2 pixels inside is color mask. The designers later apply various effects like color & exposure correction, retouching, etc