Layer Masks

You can create a layer mask to control how different areas within a layer are hidden and revealed.  By making changes to the layer mask, you can apply a variety of special effects to the layer without actually affecting the pixels on that layer. You can then either apply the mask and make the changes permanent or remove the mask without applying the changes.  You can save all layer masks with a layered image.


Add Revel All Layer Mask
In the layer palette, select the layer to which you want to add a mask.

You can not add a layer mask to a layer that already has a layer mask, or to the background.  

Add Hide All Layer Mask
Use the Add Revel All Layer Mask and then fill the Mask with Black.

You can not add a layer mask to a layer that already has a layer mask, or to the background.  

Disable Layer Mask
This turns off the layer mask temporarily.  Press Shift and clicking the layer mask thumbnail in the Layers palette.

Enable Layer Mask
Restores the effect of the layer mask after it has been temporarily disabled.  Click the layer mask thumbnail in the Layers palette.

Remove Layer Mask
This will remove the layer mask.  Drag the Mask to the Dustbin on the Layers palette.  You will be prompted to either Apply the layer mask to make the changes permanent or to Discard without applying the changes.

View Layer Mask
Alt+Click the layer mask thumbnail in the layers palette to view only the layer mask in grayscale.  Alt+Click the thumbnail again to return to the image.

View Layer Mask in rubylith
Shift+Alt+Click the layer mask thumbnail in the layers palette to view the layer mask on top of the layer in a rubylith masking color similar to Quick Mask Mode.  Shift+Alt+Click again to return to the image.