Photoshop Layer Mask and Vector Mask Tutorial
Using Layer Masks and Vector Masks to Create 'See-Through' Illustrations
Drawing Tablet: Wacom
In this Photoshop tutorial, we are going to use the "Layer Mask" and "Vector Mask" functions to create the same type of "ghosted" illustration that we created in the first Photoshop Ghosting Tutorial. Layer Masks can give you greater flexibility in editing or undoing the fading effect used in ghosting, although there are some limitations that will be covered in this tutorial.
By ghosting with Layer Masks you have greater control over the level of fade, and you preserve all of the pixel data in your top layer, giving you the opportunity to go back and edit or revise your ghosting work.
Adding a Layer Mask
There are two basic Photoshop layers used to create this illustration: A background layer with the exterior view of the vehicle, and an internal chassis layer (sample below).
Rather than erasing away the chassis to create the ghosting effect we will make a layer mask in the Photoshop Layers Pallet by clicking the "Add layer mask" button (below).
To accomplish the fading away of the chassis top layer mask you will use the Photoshop "Brush Tool" (B) in conjunction with a solid black or dark color. If you overdo the erasing effect you can use solid white (FFFFFF) to add back the image to any degree necessary.
To add subtlety to the fading effect you can use the Brush Tool's "Opacity" and "Flow" settings to minimize the fading or adding back effect, and with the Layer Mask you will have the ability to undo andy changes you make by using the solid white brush color.
Adding a Vector Mask
You can also use vector-based Photoshop Paths created with the "Pen Tool" (P) to select and edit specific confined areas you want to edit or fade within your top layer mask.
To create the ghosting effect within a confined area we will make a Vector Mask in the Photoshop Layers Pallet by clicking the "Add vector mask" button (below). You will notice that this is the same button as was used to create a Layer Mask, but it has a different functionality when you are already on a Layer Mask layer.
Technical Note: While you are using the Layer Mask or Vector Mask function you will not have the use of Hue/Saturation or Curves to edit color. Once you are happy with the ghosting effect you can merge the Layer Mask into a normal layer regaining the ability to edit color. The Saturate/Desaturate "Sponge Tool" (O) does still function while in the Layer Mask mode.
As with so many functions in Photoshop there are several ways to achieve the same objective, and it is largely a matter of personal preference and habit that will determine the best approach.
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