Layers and Masking Techniques Flashcards
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Read the first 7 Layers and Masking Techniques flashcards as text
What is the difference between 'Apply Image' and a standard layer mask when masking a layer?
Answer: Apply Image can use channel and blending data from any open document to build a complex mask calculation
Apply Image calculates and composites any channel, layer, or blending mode combination from the current or another open document directly into a mask or channel, enabling complex channel-based masking beyond what a simple brush can achieve.
How do you move a layer mask from one layer to another without copying it?
Answer: Drag the mask thumbnail to the target layer in the Layers panel
Dragging a layer mask thumbnail to another layer in the Layers panel moves (not copies) the mask to that layer.
When using the Pen tool to create a vector mask path, which panel is used to convert the path into a mask?
Answer: Layers panel using the Add Mask button with the path active
With a path active, clicking the Add Mask button in the Layers panel while a vector path is selected creates a vector mask from that path directly on the layer.
What does the 'Density' slider in the Properties panel (for layer masks) control?
Answer: The overall opacity of the mask effect, reducing how strongly hidden areas are concealed
The Density slider in the Mask Properties reduces the overall masking strength — at less than 100%, previously hidden areas become partially visible again.
In a multi-layer compositing workflow, which blend mode is most useful for combining a texture layer over a portrait while preserving the original colors?
Answer: Overlay
Overlay blend mode combines Multiply and Screen, enhancing midtone contrast while letting the underlying colors show through, making it ideal for adding texture while preserving color.
What is the function of the 'Color' blend mode when used on a layer?
Answer: Applies the hue and saturation of the top layer while preserving the underlying layer's luminosity
The Color blend mode takes the hue and saturation from the blending layer and combines it with the luminosity of the base layer, making it ideal for colorizing grayscale images.
Which action allows you to paste a copied selection directly into a layer mask without affecting the layer's pixel content?
Answer: Alt/Option-click the mask thumbnail to view it, then paste
Alt-clicking (Option-clicking) the mask thumbnail switches the canvas view to the mask; any paste operation then places content directly into the mask's grayscale channel.