Copy link to clipboard
Copied
I've updated to Photoshop 23.5.1 today and now I don't seem to be able to apply a mask to a layer. The Apply Layer Mask command appears in the dropdown menu but stays grey. I can't figure it out. Flummoxed. I've either forgotten how to use layer masks after nearly 20 years or the latest update has changed something. (using a MacBook Pro 16 inch, 2021)
Copy link to clipboard
Copied
To apply a layer mask to a layer I use the icon on the bottom of the layer panel that is shaped like a square with a hole in the middle. Works on my macbook pro 16" 2019 with PS 23.5.1
Copy link to clipboard
Copied
Copy link to clipboard
Copied
OK, I think I understand now. I'm not really that proficient in PS. I just opened a photo in PS, duplicated it, hit the mask icon which created a mask and then I right clicked on that and the apply layer mask did indeed appear. It was not greyed out and I was able to apply it to the duplicate layer. If this is what you are trying to do, it is working for me.
Copy link to clipboard
Copied
Hi @johnb3116511 sorry you are having this issue.
Let's make sure we're in a default state and there are no stale settings somewhere:
Restore your preferences using this manual method:
https://helpx.adobe.com/photoshop/using/preferences.html#Manually 
Does it work correctly?
If that doesn't solve it, you can quit Photoshop and put the Settings folder back.
It may help if we could see your Photoshop System Info. Launch Photoshop, and select Help >System Info...and copy/paste the text in a reply.
Thank you,