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PhotoBoy
PhotoBoy
Inspiring
December 15, 2021
Answered

Why can't I select the layer mask in this Photoshop video?

  • December 15, 2021
  • 1 reply
  • 365 views

19,1 iMac, Monterey 12.1, Photoshop 2022: See video attached:

 

Why can't I select the layer mask? It is a copy of the original which was unlocked. I want to block out some of the layer image by painting on the mask, but I can't select it after creating it. The layer is not locked in any way that I can see. Maybe I am missing something.

This topic has been closed for replies.
Correct answer Myra Ferguson

It's a vector mask. If you'd like to create a vector shape or a path to use as a mask, select the layer, go to the Paths panel (Window > Paths), select the italicized path, and either draw a shape or a path on the canvas. When you go back to the Layers panel, you'll see the vector mask updated with the shape or path.

 

If you want a regular layer mask, you can right-click on the layer with the vector mask in the Layers panel and select Delete Vector Mask. Then you can add a Layer mask (Layer > Layer Mask... or click the Add layer mask icon at the bottom of the Layers panel).

1 reply

Myra Ferguson
Community Expert
Myra FergusonCommunity ExpertCorrect answer
Community Expert
December 17, 2021

It's a vector mask. If you'd like to create a vector shape or a path to use as a mask, select the layer, go to the Paths panel (Window > Paths), select the italicized path, and either draw a shape or a path on the canvas. When you go back to the Layers panel, you'll see the vector mask updated with the shape or path.

 

If you want a regular layer mask, you can right-click on the layer with the vector mask in the Layers panel and select Delete Vector Mask. Then you can add a Layer mask (Layer > Layer Mask... or click the Add layer mask icon at the bottom of the Layers panel).

PhotoBoy
PhotoBoyAuthor
Inspiring
December 17, 2021

Wow, that's new to me. Thanks for helping me. Learned something new thanks to you, Myra.

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