Tip 7 Using masks (beginner/int)

Masks are a useful tool I have only begun to use this week, since they always appeared complicated to me. I have used the eraser method for years and using a mask is not dissimilar, however with a mask you have more control over the editing process, and you can make edits in the future without having erased away your image.

Begin by opening a new image and duplicating the layer. Select the little rectangular in the bottom of the layer box, it has a circle in the middle of it. This will create a white mask. If you click this button while holding alt, this will create a black mask. Add some effect to your duplicated image to see how the mask will effect it. I set mine to screen. Select a black brush and paint away to reveal the layer beneath.



You can reduce the opacity of your brush for a lesser effect. The best part about using masks is that if you don't like what you have made you can paint back the opposite colour to get what you originally had.


Now try using a black mask. Click the mask button while holding alt. Make sure you have your mask selected not your layer. Now change the layer to screen. Paint white on the layer using airbrush and see how it paints away the normal looking image to reveal the screened layer beneath it.



I was able to create the following image using radial blur and a few simple masks.