Clipping path tutorial- How to create a clipping path in Photoshop?

Do you want to change the background of your image? How about using a clipping path? It is the easiest and effective Photoshop techniques to remove the unwanted traffic from a photo and brings the targeted image in the limelight.

What is a clipping path?

Clipping path is a Photoshop technique used to cut a 2D image to outline a focused vision.

Why is a clipping path used?

Clipping path is quicker to remove background only using a pen tool. Though it is not suitable for a complex structure like hair, fuzz on sweater etc. but acts magnificently on a sharp and smooth edge image. So it is not ideal for a professional purpose. But you also use it in photo retouching and colour correction.

Ways to create a clipping path in Photoshop

If you are not accustomed to the process of creating a clipping path, then here is a clipping path tutorial- how to create a clipping path in Photoshop?

1. Requirements:

Photoshop CS5

1. Procedure:

Clipping path with paths panel

• Open Photoshop.
• Upload an image.
• Create a path around an image using pen tool from the main toolbar.
• Select paths panel from layers palette.
• Click on “save path” from the panel menu and name it.
• Then select the option of clipping path from the same panel menu. A dialogue box with clipping path settings will open.
• Select your path from the dialogue box with various clipping path settings. When the path is selected, click “ok”.
• Visit the file menu and click “save as”.
• Select “Photoshop EPS” and click “ok’.

Clipping path with a layer mask

• Convert the background layer into layer o holding the Alt key (Windows) and option key (Mac).
• Create a new layer.
• Create a path around the image with the pen tool.
• Select “Add layer mask” from layer palette twice.
• Select “save as” to save the new file in .psd format.

If you create a clipping path using this process, you can use it in illustrator and InDesign also.

Final opinion

Recreate your design and give it a focused look using the clipping path. Let us know if this article was useful to you.