An introduction to the ‘Masking: part one’ tutorial

In this tutorial we will discuss a variety of masking techniques including: creating complex and compound masks; repairing images with less than ideal masks; and how to add a vignette using a feathered mask.

The specific topics covered include:

Why we need complex masks.
Constructing complex masks.
Alternative methods of creating complex masks.
Creating compound masks.
Repairing a mask.
Using masks to add a vignette.

This tutorial contains 3750 words, 47 illustrative images and screen grabs, and has received 22 comments.

Photoshop files included with this tutorial

Each of our tutorials is based around a series of layered Photoshop files, at the resolution originally posted on chromasia, which you can download after you subscribe to the tutorial. The images used for this tutorial, and a brief description of each, are included below – the ‘before’ version on the left, the ‘after’ version on the right.

How to get from this …	to this
		Image 1 In this example I will show you how to use a variety tools to construct a complex masks. We will also discuss how to save, load and reuse these masks.
		Image 2 In this example I will show you how to build up a complex mask using gradient masks and a variety of selection tools.
		Image 3 In this example I will show you how to repair artifacts introduced by a less than perfect mask.
		Image 4 In this example I will show you how to add a vignette to your images.

What our subscribers have said about this tutorial

"Thanks David; another fantastic tutorial. I've been searching for more blend mode tricks, overlay is almost overused in my workflow these days, and this darken (and presumably lighten) technique will be receiving much use in the future!"

Jordan Cartwright

"I was very glad for this tutorial. It takes me a few time through something to really feel comfortable with it to the point that it becomes natural to think of using it on a regular basis. Mastery of these basic techniques paves the way for the more complicated ones, at least for me. So thanks, and please keep up the great work!"

Tim Smith

"Great tutorial. Didn't know about that halo correction technique (clone stamp in darken/lighten modes) but have just used it on a photo."

Jamey

Content overview (the rollover graphics and embedded videos are not illustrated)


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Further information

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			Mini-PSDs We introduced our Mini-PSDs in February 2010, and release a new image every week. Click here to see the full list of Mini-PSDs and find out more about this feature.						Critique Slot Screencasts Our Critique Slot Screencasts provide our members with an exciting opportunity to get detailed and constructive feedback on one of their own images, gain an insight into how other members postprocess their images, and see how I might have processed that particular image. Click here to find out more.