refine edge not working in select and mask

Forum|Forum|5 years ago
April 9, 2020
3 replies
1920 views

refine edge not working in select and mask. Ive tried everything and I just cannot get the refine edge to work in select and mask. Help!

New user

This topic has been closed for replies.

Correct answer davescm

For that hard edged object, the pen tool will give you a much better and crisper selection. Just draw a path around the object and convert the path to a selection.

Dave

davescm

Community Expert

What is "not working" please include screenshots to help explain.

Common errors:

1. Using too large a brush when refining an edge. It should only be painting the edges not well into the body of the selection.

2. Using refine edge on hard edges. It was designed for soft edges (fur or hair) not sharp crisp edges.

Dave

lances62209392Author

Participating Frequently

Thank You davescm. I know not working is a very generalized statement. I am shooting surfboad fins laid flat on a white background shot from above. I'm getting a shadow on the base. Your suggestions make sense. I was using a fairly large brush and the edges are very hard on the fin. I was trying to remove that shadow with select and mask quick select then refine edge to remove the shadow and have an accurate seletion.

lances62209392Author

Participating Frequently

Hi

Refining was designed to select around those fine areas such as hair and fur. It can give jagged results on crisp sharp edges and the pen tool would be much better.

It is well worth practising and gets much quicker and easier with a bit of practice and of course is very accurate.

https://helpx.adobe.com/uk/photoshop/using/drawing-pen-tools.html

Dave

Thanks so much davecm. I will check out your link and practice with the pen tool.