Definition:
Masks in image editing software are a way of protecting specific areas of your
image, just as you would use masking tape when painting your house. A mask consists
of a grayscale channel, called an alpha channel and is often displayed as a ruby
overlay so the underlying image can be seen through the mask. The darkest areas
of a mask are the areas most protected and the white areas are unprotected. Shades
of gray represent areas of partial protection that corresponds with the level
of gray.
Masks are
employed in various ways depending on the software program, but the basic concept
is the same. Whether it is Clipping Masks in Photo-Paint, Quick Mask Mode and
Layer Masks in Photoshop, Mask Mode in PhotoImpact... they all employ the basic
concept of grayscale masks to perform image editing functions to selective areas
of an image. Often masking is used to apply varying levels of transparency to
a layer or image.
Also Known As: grayscale mask, greyscale
mask, alpha channel
Related Resources:
What
is a Mask?
An explanation of masks with visual examples.
Free Grayscale Masks
Over 100 grayscale masks that can be used for creating decorative frames and
edge effects in most graphics programs.
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