Curves on masks

[Rafaelini]

There is a similar question but it is not really answered. "How to edit masks with levels". Here is my attempt to make the question very clear.

1. We can edit an image with curves, and rasterize it to a mask. No problem here.
2. On the first attached image I am using an image as a mask to a flat yellow layer to reveal the blue color below.
3. And as you can see, I have another mask, with the same image previously modified with curves to be used as a different mask, so the result is different. I can switch between the two.

But what I want is to be able to modify the mask itself on the fly, instead of preparing a different mask each time.

The question is. Can I modify the mask itself with curves so I have a non destructive way to play with them?

(This is only an example on why would someone want to modify the masks values)

Image from pexels com

[NotMyFault]

57 minutes ago, Rafaelini said:

Can I modify the mask itself with curves so I have a non destructive way to play with them?

Yes, but you must choose the alpha channel in the curves adjustment, and put the adjustment layer into the masking position of the parent layer.

only 3 adjustments are capable to impact masks:

• curves
• levels
• channels

most filters like blur, procedural texture can impact alpha.

There numerous unfixed bugs with nested adjustments/ filters on groups (blend mode path-through), vector layers, CMYK, and fill layers (with partial alpha).

[thomaso]

Another way for colourizing, simpler and less flexible, could be a "Gradient Map Adjustment". Below with two colours and a centred midpoint, which was moved to the left and right for the brighter/darker examples.

And a different method achieves simple layer transparency with "Blend Range Curves" instead of masks.

[Rafaelini]

Thank you Thomaso, but I do not need colorizing. It was just a simple example applying a modified mask.