Photoshop and Lightroom: Masking Essentials

Masking is one of the most commonly preferred tools for editing and compositing digital images. It’s easy to get started with masks, too, especially in Photoshop or Lightroom. In this course, graphic artist Theresa Jackson gives you an overview of masking and how it works in each application so you can decide what’s best for you.

Learn the essentials of masks, how they function, and why they’re so widely used. Explore the differences and similarities of masks in Photoshop versus Lightroom, before taking a deeper dive into specific features uniquely available in each. From layer masks and color masks in Photoshop, to submasks and intersect masks in Lightroom, Theresa covers everything you need to know to mask on your own, including how to use the latest AI-powered masking features in both Lightroom and Photoshop. By the end of this course, you’ll be ready to use both programs simultaneously as well as edit on your tablet or phone.

Learning objectives

• Explore key masking concepts and how they apply to Photoshop and Lightroom.
• Apply layer masks effectively using Photoshop's selection tools and adjustment brushes.
• Explore the Select and Mask workspace in Photoshop to refine mask edges.
• Create precise masks with Lightroom’s advanced tools like Color, Luminance, and Depth Range masks.
• Integrate artificial intelligence features such as Select Subject, Select Sky, and Adaptive Presets for efficient selections.
• Evaluate when to use Photoshop versus Lightroom based on project needs and mask requirements.
• Demonstrate seamless workflow transitions between Lightroom and Photoshop using Smart Objects.