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Image masking is an intricate method designed to eliminate backgrounds from images featuring subjects with soft or fuzzy edges, such as hair, wool, or fur. In contrast to clipping path services, which are akin to cutting out images from a magazine, image masking involves a labor-intensive process. It demands advanced Photoshop techniques to meticulously address every minute detail, ensuring a seamless removal of even the tiniest strands of hair or fur.
Our process initiates with the creation of hand-drawn clipping paths, particularly along straight edges. Subsequently, we employ a suite of Photoshop masking tools and advanced techniques to delve into the finer intricacies of background removal:- Hand-drawn clipping paths
- The background eraser tool
- The magic eraser tool
- The channel mask
- The color separation technique
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Not all clipping paths are alike, so the rates for each project vary. Every image is different, but we follow standard pricing guidelines to make sure your rate is always clear and objective, even if you’re working with a different designer.
Here’s an overview of how we price different clipping path projects:1. Basic image masking projects –0.75¢ per image
Images in this category are characterized by their simplicity. They typically feature smooth edges around the main object, with a small section of the image incorporating elements like fur, hair, or transparency.
Great for:
- Eyeglasses
- Handbags, clutches, and jewelry with tassels
- Clothing with a fringed hem
- Transparent or translucent empty containers
- Glassware
2. Simple image masking projects – $1.15 per image
This category encompasses the majority of images, constituting nearly 50% of image masking orders at Path. These images present a slightly higher level of complexity than the "basic" category, often featuring a greater portion of the object with furry or fuzzy edges, or the object itself possessing intricate, smooth edges.
Great for:
- One person with a head of hair in a photo
- Fur-lined boots
- Jewelry with intricate settings
- Translucent gemstones
- Topiaries and simple floral arrangements in opaque vases
- A single stuffed animal with mostly smooth borders, but some furry edges
3. Medium image masking projects – $1.65 per image
This category encompasses the majority of images, constituting nearly 50% of image masking orders at Path. These images present a slightly higher level of complexity than the "basic" category, often featuring a greater portion of the object with furry or fuzzy edges, or the object itself possessing intricate, smooth edges.
Great for:
- One person with a head of hair in a photo
- Fur-lined boots
- Jewelry with intricate settings
- Translucent gemstones
- Topiaries and simple floral arrangements in opaque vases
- A single stuffed animal with mostly smooth borders, but some furry edges
4. Complex image masking projects – $1.95 per image
This category encompasses the majority of images, constituting nearly 50% of image masking orders at Path. These images present a slightly higher level of complexity than the "basic" category, often featuring a greater portion of the object with furry or fuzzy edges, or the object itself possessing intricate, smooth edges.
Great for:
- One person with a head of hair in a photo
- Fur-lined boots
- Jewelry with intricate settings
- Translucent gemstones
- Topiaries and simple floral arrangements in opaque vases
- A single stuffed animal with mostly smooth borders, but some furry edges
4. Super complex image masking projects – $3 per image
This category encompasses the majority of images, constituting nearly 50% of image masking orders at Path. These images present a slightly higher level of complexity than the "basic" category, often featuring a greater portion of the object with furry or fuzzy edges, or the object itself possessing intricate, smooth edges.
Great for:
- One person with a head of hair in a photo
- Fur-lined boots
- Jewelry with intricate settings
- Translucent gemstones
- Topiaries and simple floral arrangements in opaque vases
- A single stuffed animal with mostly smooth borders, but some furry edges
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Common techniques include layer masking, alpha masking, and translucent masking. Each method is chosen based on the specific requirements of the image.
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Yes, image masking is effective for images with transparent elements, allowing for precise and clean removal of backgrounds or specific areas.
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Turnaround time varies based on the service provider and image complexity. It can range from a few hours to several days.