Copying a masked model image into another file using the Select all (ctrl+a), Copy (ctrl+c), select layer in a different doc and Paste (ctrl+v) to paste above that layer. This is for Senior Sports Banners that I have been doing for years. This process now only copies the active element (image or mask) in the layer instead of the entire layer. Now having to drag and drop into the layer, which takes longer and with +30 student athletes that adds up.
Recently built a new computer with clean install of everything. Don't know if there is a setting or check box I'm forgetting or this is result of an update. The Layer Mask is linked to the layer and the active tool is Rectangular Marquee (m) or Free Transform/Move Tool (v) (which previously didn't matter which).