For whatever thing a basic understanding is
required first. Without understanding its significance, knowing the subject or
imparting the knowledge would be very difficult. Even in photo editing
understanding the value of masking is very important.
Generally
a mask is used to hide or protect the face partially or completely. A tattoo
also helps in covering some areas but it does destroy the hidden part. Any
design or painting also hides the face and gives a new look. But any ways these
would create certain damage to the skin. In the same way masking is also a technique in photo editing which helps in the
modification of the photo without destroying its original part. It can be said
as a non-destructive photo-editing tool.
There
are 5 methods of masking in a Photoshop. They are:
1.
Pixel
masking: This
is based on determining the opacity based in the picture. The area, which is
masked, can be said as zero pixel area and area, which is not masked, is
non-zero pixel area. This is very ideal for masking any imagery or hairs on
faces etc. But this cannot be used on all pictures. Smooth edges and perfect
edges would be difficult with this mask.
2.
Vector
masking: This
can be used where the previous one fails. Vector mask helps in masking out
clear lines, shapes such as boundary facets. Here it is difficult to
differentiate the pixel opacities.
3.
Quick
masking: here
using pixel-editing tools can make a selection. This is merely a visual
depiction of the selection made.
4.
Clipping
masks: This
comes handy when there is multiple areas require similar masking. It is
possible to group the layers and mask the group entirely. The best example is
to mask a bunch of grapes. A single grape can be masked and a layer could be
created, then the layer should be grouped which can be masked easily by clipping mask.
5.
Clipping
paths: Here
the entire picture can be masked. The graphic designers in studios mainly use
this.
Other
than these methods there are also other methods like combination of two types
of masking, multiple masking, type masking etc.
Masking
takes a bit more time when coming to editing pictures. It is sometimes a tiring
job, which requires more attention and concentration. But the fruit of these
efforts would be marvelous. Another importance in masking is that about the clipping path. Clipping path has become
the popular profession, which is demanded by many fields of people. Without
doubt nowadays each and everything requires proper marketing for its success.
In that case photography is also a vital part in it. The masking provides a
good range of advertisements that attract the eyes, which looks on it.
As
the demand of this aspect is more the techniques of masking have also improved
over a period of time. When compared to previous times now it is very easy
process. When the concept and application is understood this is the most
wonderful tool that creates a beautiful blending of images. As said earlier a better
understanding of the values of masking is very essential before getting into
it.
