Layer Mask USA - Photography Terms & Glossary

Glossary Of Photography Terms [1]

Layer Mask A layer mask is a non-destructive editing tool used in image editing software, such as Adobe Photoshop, to selectively control the visibility and transparency of specific areas within a layer. It allows users to apply adjustments, effects, or modifications to parts of an image while preserving the original image data and maintaining flexibility for further editing. A layer mask consists of grayscale values (black, white, and shades of gray) that determine the opacity of the corresponding pixels in the layer to which it is applied. White areas of the layer mask reveal the pixels of the layer, while black areas hide them. Gray areas partially reveal or hide the pixels based on the intensity of the gray.

By painting on the layer mask with black, white, or shades of gray using brushes or selection tools, users can selectively reveal or conceal parts of the layer, apply complex blending effects, create seamless composites, and combine multiple images with precision and control. Layer masks are essential tools in advanced image editing and compositing workflows, allowing photographers and digital artists to achieve seamless and professional-looking results.