---
title: "A couple of masking techniques in Photoshop"
author: Steve McKinney
date: 2015-07-07T06:38:00+00:00
lastmod: 2019-10-01T06:49:55+00:00
categories: ["Design"]
url: https://iamsteve.me/blog/a-couple-of-masking-techniques-in-photoshop
---

## Clipping mask

A clipping mask is probably my most commonly used mask. It’s great for sizing images accurately, to a shape or making sure other layers are contained within a base layer.

You hold <kbd>alt</kbd> and hover between two layers and click to make a clipping mask. Or the keyboard shortcut <kbd>cmd/ctrl</kbd> <kbd>alt</kbd> <kbd>g</kbd>.

## Non destructive dodge & burn

Dodge and burn are more useful for photo editing, however as websites feature photos more often than not. This should have its uses for you. Being able to darken/lighten parts of a picture can be handy for overlaying text.

Add a layer that’s #808080 (50% grey). Set the blending mode to overlay and do your dodging and burning over it.

A short post this week but I find these techniques very handy while I'm designing.