Smart object masks problem

Let's see if I can explain the problem I'm having...

1. I create a blank 12x12 320 dpi image.
2. I choose place from the file menu and choose an image to place on the 12x12 document as a smart object
3. I make a selection on the smart object (rectangle for example)
4. Press the mask button under the layers on the layers palette to apply the rectangular mask for the smart object.
5. Now select the smart object and try and re-size it with the layer handles.

The mask for the smart object gets all messed up. It's like it puts the mask at the bottom right of the smart object now. I can un-link the mask and object and move it back, but it seems it is behaving incorrectly.

Can anyone verify this?

Matt

Which version of Photoshop are you using?

Oops, sorry. I am using CS4 Extended.

Matt

The problem is your mask is not linked to the smart object, and therefore doesn't transform with it. The workaround in CS3 was to drop the smart object in a group and apply the mask to the group instead. I'm assuming by your post this is still necessary in CS4. You might try clicking between the mask and the smart object (in the layers panel) first and see if a link (chain) icon appears...

The link chain does appear. I can 'un-link' them and move the mask around separately, but when linked I expected them to move together. I will try the group solution and post back.

Matt

It might help if I read the post before responding. ;)

I'm assuming by your post this is still necessary in CS4.

It's not necessary in CS4. If the mask is linked with the smart object (default setting) then the mask will transform with the smart object.

However, if you edit or transform the contents of the smart object then those changes are not in any way linked to the mask.

... but when linked I expected them to move together.

They do.