Image Masking Service
Image masking is the technique used to cut out subjects with soft or complex edges, such as hair, fur, feathers, lace and glass, where a clipping path would look too hard. Photo Fixion uses layer and alpha channel masking to keep fine detail while changing the background.
Last updated
At a glance
Image Masking at a glance
| What it is | Precise masks for hair, fur, fabric and semi-transparent objects. |
|---|---|
| Best for | Model photography, Fur and fabric products, Glass and translucent items |
| Method | Layer masks, alpha channels and refine-edge work by hand |
| Turnaround | 24 hours standard, 12 hours express, 6 hours rush |
| File formats | PSD with layer mask, PNG, TIFF, JPG |
| Free trial | Available on request |
Types
What types of image masking do you offer?
Photo Fixion offers 4 types of image masking: layer masking, hair and fur masking, alpha channel masking, transparency masking.
Layer masking
A non-destructive mask that hides the background while keeping the original pixels editable.
Hair and fur masking
Fine strands of hair, fur and feathers are separated from the background one area at a time.
Alpha channel masking
The mask is saved as a channel so the selection can be reused for later edits.
Transparency masking
Glass, water, smoke and sheer fabric keep their see-through look on a new background.
What is included in image masking?
- Layer masking
- Hair and fur masking
- Alpha channel masking
- Transparent object masking
Who is image masking best for?
- Model photography
- Fur and fabric products
- Glass and translucent items
Process
How does image masking work?
Image Masking at Photo Fixion follows 4 steps, from upload to delivery within 24 hours.
Send your images
Upload model or product photos and tell us the new background you want.
Rough selection
Editors separate the solid parts of the subject first, often with a clipping path.
Fine edge masking
Hair, fur and transparent areas are masked at high zoom using channels and hand-painted masks.
Check on light and dark
The cut-out is tested on light and dark backgrounds, then delivered within 24 hours.
Compare
When do I need image masking instead of a clipping path?
Choose image masking when the edge is soft, fuzzy or see-through: hair, fur, feathers, lace, smoke or glass. Choose a clipping path when the product has a firm, clear outline. A model photo often uses a path for the body and clothing and a mask for the hair.
Pricing
How much does image masking cost?
The price of image masking is quoted per image and depends on four things. Send a few sample images to get an exact quote, and ask about discounts for bulk volume.
- Amount of hair, fur or fine detail
- Contrast between subject and background
- Transparent or semi-transparent areas
- Order volume and delivery speed
FAQ
Image Masking questions and answers
When do I need masking instead of a clipping path?
Choose masking when the edge is soft or detailed, for example hair, fur or sheer fabric. Choose a clipping path for products with firm, clear edges.
Will fine hair strands be kept?
Yes. Masking is done at high zoom so individual strands and soft edges are preserved.
Can you mask glass and transparent products?
Yes. Transparency masking keeps the see-through look of glass, bottles and sheer fabric on the new background.
Does a busy background make masking harder?
Yes. Low contrast or a busy background takes more manual work. A plain, evenly lit backdrop gives the cleanest result.
Can I get the mask as a layer?
Yes. PSD files with the layer mask or alpha channel are available, so you can adjust the cut-out later.
Related
Services often ordered with image masking
Clipping Path
Hand-drawn paths that cut products cleanly from any background.
Clipping Path service →Background Removal
Clean white, transparent or custom backgrounds for product photos.
Background Removal service →Photo Retouching
Natural clean-up for products, portraits and high-end campaigns.
Photo Retouching service →Ghost Mannequin
The invisible mannequin effect that shows the fit of apparel.
Ghost Mannequin service →Try our image masking service free.
Send a few images and get edited samples back within 24 hours.