Image masking is the technique to remove those elements of an image that don’t belong to the image or are not required at all. Though there are many techniques to do so but image masking is done when the task is very complicated.Let’s say you have to change the background of an image in which a female model is flaunting her flowing here. The work around hair will be very difficult as you have to take care of every single strand of hair. For such complex work, image masking seems to the best option.
In simpler words, masking is the process of concealing unwanted elements of an image which is done through Photoshop. By covering the non-required parts of an image, you are left with those parts only that you want to be showed. Primarily, there are two types if masks, i.e. layer masks and clipping masks.
4 Ways of Image Masking
In this post, we will discuss 4 different ways to mask images. These ways would be color separation, extract tool, channel mask and background removal. The selection of the best way for an image will depend largely on its complexity level. Now let’s have a look at the ways to mask images-
Color Separation
Color separation technique can be used only when the background of the image is in contrast with the object to be retained. Let’s say if the color of the hair is black then the background should be in a light shade like white, light blue or pink. Simply put, it should be in a shade that can be easily distinguished from the main object.
Extract Tool
When you have to do compound masking, extract tool can be good. For applying this tool, click Filet>Extract and then customize the available options as per the image to be edited. After customizing the options, take care of the border and apply option. This process will take out the background and provide you with a nicely separated image.
Channel Masking
In this method, you need to do color balance by picking the channel that shows the variety between the background and the object. And when you are done with the color balance, press Ctrl and click on the selected channel. This way, you will be able to select the desired part accurately.
Background Eraser Tool
Here, you are required to select the object by creating a clipping path around it. It will help in keeping the desired part intact while erasing the background. In case the clipping path is not drawn accurately, some parts of the object may also vanish. So, you need to be very careful while clipping path around complex parts of the image.
Whatever way you choose for image masking, for impressive images you need professional expertise. If you are not having that perfection, you can take services of professional image editors. There are several companies offering brilliant image masking services at affordable rates. Outsourcing your project to a professional company offers amazing benefits. Have a look-
Benefits of Outsourcing Image Masking
Perfection
When you hand over your project to professionals, perfection is bound to be achieved. Experience graphic artists will process the image meticulously making sure the accuracy is not compromised with at all.
Cost Savings
Contrary to the popular belief, image editing outsourcing falls cheaper than hiring in-house staff for the same. When outsourcing your project, you don’t need to invest in infrastructure, image editing software and hiring and training of employees.
Shorter Turnarounds
Professionals having good experience can certainly do the job earlier. Having processed images at the right time means your subsequent processes are not going to face any delays due to unavailability of images.