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10/26/05
Layer Mask
Use layer masks to blend images together, to fade images
in or out of other images, or to hide parts of an image on a layer. The
benefit of layer masks is that all of the information on the layer is
saved, while you can reveal and/or hide parts of the image. It's like
being able to use the delete key, but then also being able to go back
to the layer after you've saved and closed it to restore some of the previously
"deleted" information.
Adding a Layer Mask
You can add a layer mask at any point, but if you are new to using layer
masks, it is a good idea to begin by making a selection before adding
the mask. To add a layer mask, use the icon for "Add a layer mask"
at the bottom of the layer palette (2nd button in from the left).
Create a selection, then add a layer mask by hitting the add a layer mask
button at the bottom of the layer palette. The mask will reveal anything
that was included in the selection and it will hide anything that was
not in the selection. You will see that the icon of the layer mask looks
like your selection rendered in black and white. Click the icon for the
layer mask inside the layer palette to edit it (in the same window that
you normally work in). Use a paintbrush and black/white paint. Remember
that you will be able to alter your paintbrush settings, including the
size, shape of the brush, hardness or softness of the brush tip, opacity,
and blending mode settings (usually we leave this on “normal”
when editing a mask).
If you want to make part of a layer appear as though it is fading out,
use the gradient tool on the layer mask. Draw a straight line from the
point where you want to see the image to the point where it should be
faded out. The gradient
should use white and black (if you draw from white to black, it will fade
from "show the layer" to "hide the layer"). !
Hot Keys:
D Sets default foreground/background color chips
to black/white (perfect for editing layer masks)
X Switches the foreground and background colors
B Selects the paintbrush
[ Selects a smaller brush size
] Selects a larger brush size
NEXT WEEK
Assignment 3 is
due.
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