Here is a video that focus on how to make layers masks with channels in Photoshop with a focus on photography.
video by Visual Wilderness
Channels are one of the most powerful features in Photoshop. Used correctly, they can help you create amazing images with great control over color, contrast, and brightness. In this tutorial, we’ll take a look at the basics of using channels in Photoshop and explore some of the creative possibilities they offer.
What are Channels?
Channels are essentially grayscale layers which store information about color and brightness. They’re like a ‘map’ of your image, where each channel holds a specific type of information. Photoshop has three main channels: Red, Green, and Blue (RGB). By combining these channels, Photoshop can create the full range of colors you see in your images.
Using Channels
You can access the Channels panel in Photoshop by clicking the ‘Channels’ tab in the Layers panel. Here, you’ll see the three main channels, as well as any other channels you’ve created. You can also view a channel as a grayscale image, which can be useful for analyzing and modifying your image.
To view a channel as a grayscale image, simply double-click on its name in the Channels panel. This will open the channel as a new document. You can then use the tools in the Tools panel to adjust the brightness, contrast, and color of the channel. When you’re done, simply save the document and close it, and your changes will be reflected in the original image.
Creating Channels
You can also create your own channels in Photoshop. To do this, click the ‘New Channel’ button in the Channels panel. This will open a dialog box where you can name the new channel and set its color. You can also add information to the channel by using the selection tools, painting tools, or filters.
Once you’ve created a channel, you can use it to modify your image. For example, you can use a channel to selectively lighten or darken areas of your image, or to add a color tint. You can also use channels to create masks, which can be used to hide or reveal parts of your image.
How To Use Channels To Create Layer Masks For Photographers
Layer masks are an essential tool for photographers, allowing us to selectively adjust the brightness, contrast, or color of certain elements within a particular layer. In this tutorial, we'll learn how to use channels to create layer masks that make those adjustments easier.
Step 1: Create a Channel
To start, open an image in Photoshop and select the Channels tab. Here, you'll see the three default channels – Red, Green, and Blue – as well as any additional channels you may have already created. To create a new channel, click the “Create New Channel” icon at the bottom of the Channels tab.
Step 2: Select an Area of the Image
Next, use the lasso or marquee tools to select the area of the image you want to adjust. Make sure you select the area precisely, as this will create a more accurate mask.
Step 3: Create a Selection
Once you have the area selected, click on the “Create Selection” icon at the bottom of the Channels tab. This will create a selection of the area you selected.
Step 4: Select the New Channel
Now that you have a selection, select the new channel you created in Step 1. This will allow you to view the selection you just made in the new channel.
Step 5: Adjust the Channel
At this point, you can adjust the channel using the Levels and Curves tools. This will allow you to fine-tune the mask so that it accurately reflects the area you selected.
Step 6: Apply the Layer Mask
Once you're satisfied with the mask, select the layer you want to adjust and click the “Add Layer Mask” icon at the bottom of the Layers tab. This will apply the mask to the layer, allowing you to make the adjustments you want.
Step 7: Adjust the Layer
Now that you have the layer mask applied, you can adjust the layer using the Hue/Saturation, Brightness/Contrast, or Color Balance tools. This will allow you to selectively adjust the brightness, contrast, or color of the area you selected.
Step 8: Save Your Work
Once you're done making adjustments, save your work by clicking “File” and then “Save”. This will ensure that your work is preserved.
Wrapping Up
Using channels to create layer masks is an easy and effective way for photographers to make precise adjustments to specific areas of an image. With a little practice, you'll be able to quickly and accurately create layer masks that will make your photos look their best.