Q: Adjusting a layer mask, non-permanently

D
Posted By
Demolisher
Sep 1, 2004
Views
365
Replies
3
Status
Closed
Let’s say you have a layer with a layer mask. The layer mask contains a gradient like image (white to black to white) causing partical visibility of some of the image data in the layer it masks. Now, say you want to tweak the gradient mask using a Levels adjustment layer. You create such a layer and put it above the masked layer in question. However, the adjustment layer applies to the image data and not the layer mask.

– Is it possible to have the adjustment layer apply only to the layer mask and not the actual image data?
– Is there a better/easier way to achieve the same effect? The effect being to use a level adjusment layer to tweak the mask applied to a layer containing image data.

Thanks,

Mike
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adjust layer mask permanently

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D
Demolisher
Sep 1, 2004
OK, I’ve had one idea, but don’t know how to make it into a full solution:

– Take the layer mask and make it into an image layer above the layer being mask
– Now what? Just changing the blending mode of the "masking" image layer does not produce what I want. There doesn’t appear to be a blending mode that you can apply to an image layer to make it apply to the layer below it in the same way as a layer mask. So, maybe this is the correct path, but I’m stuck.

Mike

"Demolisher" wrote in message
Let’s say you have a layer with a layer mask. The layer mask contains a gradient like image (white to black to white) causing partical visibility
of
some of the image data in the layer it masks. Now, say you want to tweak
the
gradient mask using a Levels adjustment layer. You create such a layer and put it above the masked layer in question. However, the adjustment layer applies to the image data and not the layer mask.

– Is it possible to have the adjustment layer apply only to the layer mask and not the actual image data?
– Is there a better/easier way to achieve the same effect? The effect
being
to use a level adjusment layer to tweak the mask applied to a layer containing image data.

Thanks,

Mike

TD
The Doormouse
Sep 1, 2004
Two things:

First, which version of PS are you using? This is critical. Second, you can always copy the adjustment layer and work with a copy. Third, you could work with the adjustment layer in channels.

The Doormouse

—
The Doormouse cannot be reached by e-mail without her permission.
D
Demolisher
Sep 1, 2004
Forgot to mention, this is for Photoshop CS

How to Master Sharpening in Photoshop

Give your photos a professional finish with sharpening in Photoshop. Learn to enhance details, create contrast, and prepare your images for print, web, and social media.

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