Non-destructive Mask

[telemax]

Hi,

This is a method of creating a completely non-destructive mask that allows you to use a normal layer as a mask, and do with it everything you can do with a normal layer, without any restrictions. 

You can also use a group as a mask! Everything you put in this group automatically becomes a mask, and you can mix them together in Multiply mode, for example. This way a mask can be a composite of multiple layers of any type (raster, vector, color, grayscale). This gives full creative freedom! 

This non-destructive mask method, created with two layer settings, Blend Ranges and Erase Blend mode. This method creates a mask from any Layer type, in a non-destructive way, keeping the original intact. And also apply Live Filters, and Adjustments.

1. Select the layer that should be the mask
2. Change its curve in Blend Ranges
3. Change its blend mode to Erase 
 

Creating a Mask

 

Creating a Composite Mask 

 

Using an image as a Mask

 

Creating a Composite Mask using different layer types

 

Applying the Live Filter

 

An alternative method using Procedural Texture

 

[prophet]

Very nice. Erase blend mode is a real game changer.

[DM1]

Thanks @telemax Most helpful and for iPad users, easily repeated on iPad version using layer blend ranges. 

[Jung21]

Thank you @telemax for this amazing masking method. Which is better between this method and alternative method with procedural texture?

[telemax]

1 hour ago, Jung21 said:

Which is better between this method and alternative method with procedural texture?

Both methods do the same thing. The main concept is to make the contents of the group work as a single mask. The main advantage is keeping the contents of the group in their original state.