Changing a layer mask in Photoshop allows you to precisely control the visibility of areas on your layer. One powerful way to refine existing masks, especially those created from selections, is by using the Select and Mask workspace.
Understanding Layer Masks
A layer mask is a grayscale image that controls the transparency of the layer it's attached to. White areas on the mask reveal the layer, black areas conceal it, and shades of gray create semi-transparency. Changing the mask means altering these white, black, and gray areas.
Steps to Change a Layer Mask Using Select and Mask
The provided reference outlines a specific workflow for refining a layer mask using the dedicated Select and Mask environment. This is particularly useful for intricate selections like hair or fur.
Here are the steps based on the reference:
- Select the Layer: In the Layers panel, find and select the layer that contains the mask you wish to edit.
- Activate the Mask: In the Layers panel, click directly on the Layer Mask thumbnail. A border will appear around the thumbnail, indicating it is active and ready for editing.
- Open Select and Mask: Click the Select and Mask button in the options bar (which appears at the top of the Photoshop window when a selection or mask is active). This opens the dedicated workspace.
- Refine Your Mask: Within the Select and Mask workspace, you have various tools and sliders (like Refine Edge Brush, Smooth, Feather, Contrast, Shift Edge) to modify the mask's edges and transparency. Work here until your mask looks precisely how you want it.
- Apply Changes: Click OK in the Select and Mask workspace to apply your refinements back to the layer mask on your original layer.
Why Use Select and Mask?
While you can directly paint on a layer mask with brushes, the Select and Mask workspace provides specialized tools specifically designed for perfecting edges, particularly around complex areas that are difficult to select manually.
Here's a quick look at the process:
| Step | Action | Location | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Select Layer | Choose the layer with the mask. | Layers Panel | Target the correct mask. |
| 2. Activate Mask | Click the mask thumbnail. | Layers Panel | Make the mask editable. |
| 3. Open Workspace | Click "Select and Mask". | Options Bar | Access specialized mask refinement tools. |
| 4. Refine | Use tools/sliders in the workspace. | Select and Mask Workspace | Improve mask edges, transparency, etc. |
| 5. Apply Changes | Click OK. | Select and Mask Workspace | Update the layer mask with refinements. |
This method offers a non-destructive way to improve the mask based on its current state, allowing for detailed adjustments beyond simple brushwork.
