Gradient on Alpha Channel

[Helga232257797935]

Before the new version of the Gradient Tool, I could add a Gradient to an Alpha Channel. I do not seem to be able to this on the new 2023 Photoshop. Can anyone help with this please.

[melissapiccone]

You can add a gradient to a layer mask. The gradient tool seems to create a gradient fill layer if not on a layer mask. 

 

[Helga232257797935]

Thank you, but I need the Gradient as an Alpha Channel, because otherwise I can't use the Alpha Channel (with the gradient) as the Source for the Lens Blur Filter. I can use the Quick Mask or any other Selection and add it as the Alpha Channel, but I would really like to use the different Gradients for adding black to white on the Alpha.

[Jeff Arola · Accepted solution]

In the Gradient Tool settings in the tool options bar, set the Gradient Tool to Classic gradient and then you should be able to draw the gradient on an Alpha Channel.

[Helga232257797935]

A million Thanks! It's really awesome to learn something new every day about this great application! Much appreciated!

[seanc23257002]

For anyone else who set it to 'Classic' under the 'method' tab and thought the provided solution was incorrect, set it to 'Classic gradient' under the left-most drop-down, and then it will work on the alpha channel like you want instead of creating a new gradient fill layer..

[John5D80]

This does possibly outdated, the UI is greyed out. 

[Lumigraphics]

A mask is simply an 8-bit greyscale image. Try option-clicking the mask to load that and then apply your gradient.