In Photoshop, the two most effective tools are clipping path and image masking. Graphic designers use them extensively and frequently. When there’s a need to eliminate undesired elements from the image background, these tools come into play. The difference between these two tools is in how graphic designers remove objects from the background of an image.
What is Clipping Path
Clipping Path is a powerful technique. It removes the background of an image and makes it transparent. This facilitates the graphic designer to put a suitable background as per choice.
You can use Photoshop’s pen tool to apply the clipping path technique on an image. The pen tool creates a path around the target object in the image.
The clipping path technique becomes most effective if the edges of the subject of an image are sharp and smooth. In this case, it is easy to clip the paths straight. To draw the paths perfectly, it requires the expertise of an expert. Otherwise, the poorly drawn clipping path will result in an image that will look artificial and unreal.
This fake and artificial image will create a Confusion regarding the product. This can lead to a negative impression for potential customers. The ultimate result of this negative impression will cause a loss in business. To achieve a perfect clipping path, you might need to zoom in on the image as much as 200% to get a keen and clear look at the edges.
What is Image Masking
Like the clipping path, image masking technique is also used for the removal of an image background. Although both the clipping path and masking serve the same purpose, they differ in the methods used for application.
Unlike this technique, image masking uses the Photoshop magic eraser tool and the color separation technique. When the subject of the image has small details and fine lines, the photographer applies masking.
Objects like a model’s hair, fuzz on a sweater, or animal fur need a masking technique. This technique helps to remove them from the image background. Image masking and various tools handle images with complexities, like shadows and multiple background colors.
Clipping Path vs. Image Masking
Clipping path uses the Photoshop pen tool. Image masking uses the background eraser tool, magic eraser tool, and color separation technique.
Clipping path is excellent for objects that have regular, hard and straight edges. It can also remove objects with fur or hair from the background. However, the new image will not look like the original. Some portions will remain, and the edges will appear incomplete and blunt.
In image editing and graphic design, masking is a very effective way to separate an object from its background. This method helps separate the subject from its surroundings. It ensures that the original object’s features are kept safe during the process.
When we talk about masking, we refer to the creation of a mask—a digital layer that defines which parts of an image should be visible and which should be hidden. This technique is particularly advantageous because it enables the user to manipulate the object without permanently altering the original image.
The detached object keeps all its original features. This includes color, texture, and lighting. It looks just like it did in the first photograph.
The process of masking involves several steps. First, the user picks the object they want to isolate. They can use different selection tools in graphic design software.
After selecting the object, a mask is applied. This lets the user refine the edges for a clean separation from the background. This step is important because it removes any unwanted bits of the background. This helps improve the overall look of the isolated object.
One of the key benefits of using masking is its non-destructive nature. Unlike other methods that may involve cutting or erasing parts of the image, masking allows for adjustments to be made at any time. If the user decides to change the background or modify the object further, they can do so without losing any original data. This flexibility is invaluable for designers and photographers who may need to revisit their work or make alterations based on client feedback.
For instance, it can be repositioned, resized, or placed against a different background, all while maintaining its original appearance. This flexibility renders masking as a critical instrument in creative endeavors., whether for advertising, digital art, or personal photography.
In summary, masking stands out as the best choice for detaching an object from its background due to its ability to preserve the object’s original properties and provide a non-destructive editing experience. The result is a seamless integration of the isolated object into new contexts, allowing for endless creative possibilities while ensuring that the essence of the original image remains intact. Image masking handles images that have shadows, multiple background colors, transparent or translucent backgrounds, and more. Here, applying the path will render poor results.
For complex images clipping is not suitable, rather image masking ensures the best outcome. The clipping path can work for complex images. However, it does not create realistic images like image masking can.
The clipping path can clip several objects, whereas image masking alters one object.
Clipping paths require images to be in the same layer or group. On the other hand, image masking doesn’t require this.. The team individually modifies each picture during the masking procedure.
Clipping path is more time consuming than image masking.
We can conclude that clipping path and image masking are two of the most popular Photoshop techniques in graphic design. Their goal is the same, only the techniques they follow are different. They have their own market demands in their respective cases.