Have you ever used a photo editing application and heard the terms clipping path and clipping mask? For your convenience, we are here to explain the clipping path vs. clipping mask details! This article will explore the basics of clipping paths and masks, their differences, when to use the techniques, and how to utilize them in your designs.
What are Clipping Path and Clipping Mask?
Clipping path and mask are two advanced photo editing techniques that isolate objects from their background. A clipping path is a vector-based drawing used to cut out an image from its background, thus allowing the isolated object to be separated and placed onto a different image or backdrop. In contrast, a clipping mask cuts out the non-essential parts of an image through layers and masks to put it on top of another object or background. Using these techniques over traditional methods offers greater control over manipulating images, greater accuracy with tracing shapes, and improved time efficiencies.
Comparison Between The Two Techniques: Clipping Path VS Clipping Mask:
Clipping path and mask are two popular and commonly used image editing techniques. However, the main difference between the two systems is highlighted below:
One Of Their Main Differences Is How They Are Used
While a clipping path is used mainly for removing backgrounds from product images or logos with sharp edges, a clipping mask is more suitable when dealing with pictures with soft edges or a range of colors or hues.
Clipping Path Requires More Precision Than Mask
Clipping path is a technique that requires more precision, while clipping mask is done with the help of transparency masks.
Clipping Path Using Vector Path And Clipping Mask Uses Shape Or Layer
A clipping path outlines an object in an image using a vector path. At the same time, a clipping mask involves using a shape or layer with a non-transparent background to hide sections of an image.
Differences in Their Customization Level
With a clipping path, one has complete control over what part of an image should remain visible and what should be cut out; this level of customization is unavailable in masking.
They Use Distinct Tactics For Cutting Out An Object
While the clipping path involves manually cutting out an object from its background, clipping mask uses layers and masks to cut out an object from the original image allowing for more complex graphics.
Both techniques can achieve great results and the same goal; it depends on individual preferences when deciding which works best for any given situation.
How To Use Clipping Path And A Clipping Mask In autoRetouch
The clipping path and clipping mask process in autoRetouch photo editing software can be done in four simple steps:
- First, choose your desired product image on which you want to apply the clipping path and mask, and upload it on the Workflow of autoRetouch.
- Second, select the ‘remove background’ tool from the top menu of the Workflow.
- Third, choose any modes (clothing, model, and object) in the remove background tool.
- Finally, preview the edited image to get a more detailed selection/mask before saving and downloading.
Examples Of When To Use Each Approach:
1) Removing backgrounds from images
2) Complex image editing
3) Layering images
4) Creating vector art
5) Adding special effects to photos or graphics, etc.
Conclusion :
The main similarity between the two techniques is that they allow you to separate a specific part of an image from its background. If you enjoy the topic, remember to share it with your friends.
