Layer Mask Functions Swapped

[caitlinr2449128]

Hi, I'm having an issue with removing areas from my layer mask. I apologize if I'm not explaining it right..

Anyway, I created a layer mask on an image, and am trying to remove pieces of the background of the image from the mask. Any time I select an area and hit "delete" or use the erase tool, it ADDS to the mask instead of subtracting from it. If I use the paintbrush, it subtracts from the mask, instead of adding it back in like it used to.

Again, I hope that makes sense.

Example:

Selected an area to delete from the mask, with the MASK selected, nothing happens:

If I make a selection that includes the area that I already cut off with the mask and then hit delete, it adds it back in:

Thank you!!

[davescm · Accepted solution]

Hi

Where a mask is white the image shows where a mask is black the background shows.

When brushing - check your brush colour - white to show the image - black to show the background.

If you hit delete with a mask selected - it will paint the mask with your background colour - so ensure that is black, not white, if you want to hide that area

Dave

[JJMack]

Use Edit Fill and fill with Black.  Delete key has different modes of operation depending  on the document current state and tool being used.  Filling an area of a layer mask with black will hid that area of the layers contents.