In this screencast we explore 4 different ways to extract hair from an image in order to composite it into a different background. Once again, Alpha Channels play a major role, but we also explore some Blending options in order to achieve great results. I contend that there is no one “best” way to mask hair, but if you have an arsenal of different techniques at your disposal you can usually wind up with a successful result employing one or several of the techniques I explore here. This screencast assumes a fairly advanced level of Photoshop knowledge, as I don’t spend a lot of time explaining functions that I think an advanced Photoshop user would know.
Posts Tagged ‘advanced’
Alpha Channels – Part 3
More info on Alpha Channels, and we use Color Range to begin a complex selection process. In the end we wind up with 2 different Alpha Channels for separate selections and combine them into one selection from which we make our layer mask. Powerful goodness!
Masking a Complex Image
In this screencast we take a look at masking an object that has translucent areas…..plenty of fine fibers, and lots of complexity….a “fuzzy” dandelion. We explore complex selections using Color Range, saving selections as Alpha Channels, Layer Masks, and even a Blending Mode Brush trick…….in Overlay mode! There’s lots of useful information here, so I hope you take the time to check it out.