Clipping paths, masks and alpha channels
When part of an image is isolated using the “extract tool” or with an “erase tool”, this is often referred to as masking. Even though there are plugins available in Photoshop to make masking easier, isolating images this way is remains a precise and time-consuming job.
There are two fundamental differences between isolating images using clipping paths and so-called “image masking.” Firstly, masking removes pixels whereas clipping paths are vector based. Secondly, isolating images using masking allows transparency in the object. This feature is especially useful when isolating images that include, for example, hair or glass.
Masking
Masking is recommended for images in which it is difficult to determine what is part of the object or person and what is part of the background. This could be, for example, glasses or hair. Masking an objects means the background is removed based on pixels and some pixels in the object are made transparent. This way, glass remains glass, even if you place it on a different background. If you would like Mister Clipping to isolate your images using masking, add this to the “Additional processing” field. Please note that when masking images, the images can only be returned in certain image formats, such as EPS, TIF, PNG and PSD.
Alpha channels
Another way of isolating images is by using Alpha channels. Like masking, this method is pixel rather than vector based, but the technique used is different. Every color image contains three or four color combinations: red, green and blue or cyan, magenta, yellow and black (RGB and CMYK respectively).
When isolating an image using Alpha channels, we create an additional channel that takes on the shape of the isolated object rather than the color. Alpha channels are often used to isolate images with a lot of detail and are made by using the color combination with the most contrast. Like clipping paths, an Alpha channel can be selected in Indesign, Quark or Photoshop.
Can Mister Clipping create Alpha channels and masks?
Mister Clipping mainly isolates images from their backgrounds using clipping paths. If necessary or advisable, Mister Clipping can to create Alpha channels and/or masks. In the “Processing” field of a new job you can determine which technique you want Mister Clipping to use. This can even be done for each individual image.
Unlike clipping, masking requires the image to be placed on a transparent background. This can only be done if images are uploaded in one of the following formats: TIF, PNG or PSD.
For the creation of Alpha channels, Mister Clipping will isolate your images using selections and contrasts in color channels. This requires uploading images in TIF or PSD format.
