Using channel masks
This next example shows you how to create another transparent
effect in an image. You can do this by painting in a channel mask.
To create transparent edges with a channel mask
Lets start off with a different image. This time well load a file by
using the Acquire command.
1
Choose Image > Acquire > TIFF.
2
In the directory dialog box, select the file named Image2.tif
in the Tutorial folder. Click Add.
3
Click Done.
Note: The Acquire command lets you perform batch importing of
image files. You can select multiple files and use Add or Add All
to move the files to the lower window. Then click Done.
Canvas places the image in the center of your screen. To help illus-
trate some of the channel operations, open the Channels palette.
4
Choose Image > Show Channels.
5
To create a channel mask, press Option (Mac) or Ctrl (Win-
dows) and double-click the new paint object. By doing this, you cre-
ate a channel mask and select it for editing.
In the Channels palette, youll see separate Red, Green, and Blue
channels, as well as a channel mask in the lower portion of the Chan-
nels palette.
6
Select the Airbrush tool from the Painting tools palette. When
you work with image-editing functions, it is helpful to tear off this
tool palette from the Toolbox. To do this, drag the tool palette away
from the Toolbox. You can reposition or shape the tool palette so it
doesnt obstruct your work space.
7
Select black as the Foreground color from the Toolbox.
Channels palette