What is the difference between clipping path and masking?

Clipping path and masking are two useful photo editing techniques used for a similar purpose. But the way to remove, isolate or eliminate the object from the image is different in both of them.

How and when you should use image masking or clipping path is only possible after learning their differences.

Today we will try to reveal the differences between clipping path vs masking to enhance your knowledge and skills.

Clipping Path VS Image Masking: A definitive guide

What is a clipping path?

Clipping path is a popular background removal technique in Photoshop that helps to provide real, sharper, and natural-looking images.

Clipping path uses a pen tool in Photoshop for selecting the paths that make closed vectors for separating the parts of the image.

Everything included in the path is selected using the pen tool, and all objects outside the path are leftover.

Clipping path Photoshop is an effective technique used for the subject of the image that has simple edges, ornaments, simple accessories, and thick boxes.

It is a tricky technique that needs experienced and skilled hands to make images real-looking. Poor dealing with clipping paths may result in unnatural or fuzzy edges.

Your sloppy images that the consumer will easily identify may leave bad impressions during the sale.

So, while working with the clipping path, work patiently and carefully; otherwise, you will get poor quality and unnatural images.

What are the Major Types of Photoshop Clipping Paths?

The image clipping path technique is not too complicated; it has only three types that become easier to apply after understanding their difference.

• Single-Layer Clipping Path
• Multilayer Clipping Path
• Illustrator Clipping Path

Single-Layer Clipping Path

It is pretty straightforward where a simple path is created on one layer. In this technique, you need to use the Photoshop pen tool to get better results especially when you need to change or remove the background from images.

Multilayer Clipping Path

Multiple clipping paths are ideal for removing several objects from an image by using a pen tool. It is a modern feature in Photoshop that is suitable for retouchers for separating different parts of an image and for color correction.

Illustrator Clipping Path

It is a more specific technique in Photoshop where you can cut out different portions of an image to give it a specific shape. It is ideal for making one or more vector shapes.

Illustrator Clipping Path is a non-destructive path of any design or shape which enables you to resize the photos as per the demand (without influencing the resolution)

The Adobe Illustrator tool “Clipping Masks” feature helps you the path and mask the images.

What is image masking in Photoshop?

Image masking, also known as layer masking, is an excellent technique in Photoshop used for hiding or exposing different parts in an image.

This technique is used for high-end retouching that involves several Photoshop tools such as:

• Magic eraser Tool,
• Color separation technique, and
• Background eraser tool.

Masking is generally used when an image has many lines, complex soft edges, low details, many turns, and curves. It is beneficial when images have feathers, sweaters, lighting, fur, flames, smoke, and glasses.

Clip Masking or layer masking is applied to modify, alter, and add a new layer to remove unwanted objects or parts from images.

You can easily remove the unwanted parts without touching the rest of the parts. It gives photo editors more control for placement and adjustments in images.

Clipping Path VS image Masking: What are the differences

You have gone through the detail of the clipping path and Image masking. You have understood both techniques used to remove unwanted parts and background from an image. However, the use of clipping path and Image masking are different.

Image masking is suitable for resizing complex images. You may remove the unwanted background from a complex image through a clipping path, but the results will not be satisfactory like image masking.

The clipping path technique is helpful for simple images. For complex images, its multilayer or illustrator technique may help you.

But the problem is that without highly skilled professionals you can't get better results through the clipping path technique. In that case, choosing the best clipping path service provider could be the right solution.

However, you can use clipping path and masking techniques in a single image. The clipping path will help you remove straight portions of hard edges, while the masking will help you edit complex areas and soft edges.

If an image needs the use of both techniques, then you should apply the clipping path first and then use the masking technique.

Clipping Path vs image masking: which one is better?

Photoshop Clipping Path removes background successfully when the image has a rectangular shape, straight, fewer lines, and small curves.

But this technique is challenging, and only skilled professional editors can use it. A little mistake in drawing can make your photo shaky and fuzzy.

On the other hand, Image masking is efficient for complex tasks. It comes with several options to make your images attractive and appealing. It is also easier to apply than the clipping path.

So we recommend the masking technique when choosing from the image masking or clipping path.

Frequently Asked Questions: Clipping Path vs image masking

How to get rid of clipping mask illustrators?

It is very simple to get rid of clipping mask illustrators.

• Choose the group with a clipping mask
• Then select the image
• Go to the Clipping mask
• Press the release button. You will find the Release clipping mask button on the bottom of the panel.

What are the types of masking in photoshop?

You have five options for masking in Photoshop:

• Vector masking,
• Quick Masking,
• Pixel Masking,
• Clipping Paths, and
• Clipping Mask.

How to develop a clipping mask in illustrator?

You have multiple ways to create a clipping mask in Illustrator

• First method- Object> Clipping Mask> Make
• Second Method- Go to the bottom of the panel and press the "Make/ Release Clipping Mask button.
• Third Method- Use Shortcut Key Command>7
• Fourth Method- Choose all the objects and select the Make Clipping Mask button.

Conclusion

Neither of the methods is superior, but both are suitable for different conditions. If you want quick results for simple images, then opting for the clipping path is a better solution.

In contrast, images with complex portions and soft edges need image masking techniques to get quality retouching.

Image masking and Clipping path are the most effective solutions for those who need high-quality photos for their e-commerce products or online stores.