Layers and Masking Flashcards

Which channel type appears in the Channels panel only while a layer mask is selected for editing?

Answer: Layer Mask channel (temporary composite mask channel)

When a layer mask is active, a temporary 'Layer Mask' channel appears at the bottom of the Channels panel representing that mask.

What is the result of applying a Gaussian Blur directly to a layer mask?

Answer: It softens the mask edges, creating smoother transitions

Applying Gaussian Blur to a layer mask softens its edges, creating gradual transparency transitions at mask boundaries.

In the Select and Mask workspace, what does the 'Decontaminate Colors' option do?

Answer: Replaces color fringing at the selection edge with nearby fully selected pixel colors

Decontaminate Colors removes edge fringing (color contamination from the background) by replacing fringe pixels with colors from fully selected interior areas.

You have a layer mask with sharp painted edges. Which adjustment in the Mask Properties panel would expand the masked area without repainting?

Answer: Expand/Contract using the Mask Edge option

The 'Mask Edge' button in the Properties panel opens Select and Mask where you can use the Shift Edge slider to expand or contract the mask boundary.

Which blend mode makes a layer's dark pixels transparent, making it ideal for placing black-line artwork onto a background?

Answer: Screen

Screen mode makes dark pixels transparent and keeps lighter pixels, so black lines disappear while white or light areas become visible.

When using the Pen tool to create a vector mask, what must you do after drawing the path to apply it as a mask?

Answer: Go to Layer > Vector Mask > Current Path

After drawing a path with the Pen tool, go to Layer > Vector Mask > Current Path to apply that path as a vector mask on the active layer.

What is the primary benefit of using a Luminosity mask compared to a regular painted mask for tonal adjustments?

Answer: Luminosity masks automatically target specific tonal ranges from the actual image data for seamless blending

Luminosity masks are derived from the image's own tonal data, so adjustments blend naturally with the image's highlights, midtones, or shadows without harsh edges.