Transparency to Mask

Note

This module consists of 5 functions:

  • Transparency to Group Mask

  • Transparency to Layer Mask

  • Defringe

  • Add to Mask

  • Subtract from Mask

Transparency to Group Mask

Transparency to Group Mask

Info:

This function will create a group with a mask based on a layer(s) transparency with some bleeding;

PS substitute:

Creating a group with layer mask based on a layer transparency, copying and merging a layer 10 times to get rid of transparent pixels;

Why I use it:

New layers within the group will be limited by a group mask so all the layers will work as clipping masks.
This is useful for complex images with lots of clipping masks and layers;

In this example a texture layer Overlay works as a clipping mask for keys but it can have its own clipping makss (Hue/Saturation and Curves adjustment layers that influence only the Overlay layer):


Transparency to Layer Mask

Transparency to Layer Mask

Info:

This function will create a layer mask based on a transparency and fill transparent pixels with the foreground color;

PS substitute:

Manually creating a new layer, filling it with color, merging with target layer, creating a mask.;

Why I use it:

This can be used to modify layer transparency with adjustments (Levels, Curves, etc)…
and to use Mixer Brush/Smudge Tool to modify transparency


Defringe

Defringe

Info:

This function will attempt to get rid of fringing on borders of transparent layers;

PS substitute:

Layer > Matting > Defringe attempts to do the same but fails miserably;

Why I use it:

Useful to get rid of fringing on layers that were cut from a background;


Add to/Subtract from Mask

Add to/Subtract from Mask

Info:

These functions will add a selection to or subtract a selection from a mask of an active layer or its parent group;

PS substitute:

Selecting a mask or a parent group mask, making sure the correct color is selected, filling it, select the layer back;

Why I use it:

to quickly add to or subtract from the existing layer mask;