Datasheet

Layers and Masks 155
information, like layer information, can only be preserved by saving the image in
the native PhotoPlus (.SPP) format.
Creating the mask
Before you can use a mask,
you have to create it on a
particular layer. The mask
can start out as transparent
(revealing the whole layer),
opaque (hiding the whole
layer), a transparency
gradient (opposite) or—if
you create it from a
selection—a bit of both
(with only the selected
region hidden or revealed).
The mask shows as a mask
thumbnail.
The choice depends on how you want to work with the layer's contents. By
darkening portions of a clear mask, you can selectively fade underlying layer
pixels. By lightening an opaque mask, you selectively reveal layer pixels.
To create a mask:
1. Select a layer in the Layers tab. This is the layer where you want to create
the mask, and select specific region(s) if desired.
2. Then either:
• Click the Add Layer Mask button to create a Reveal All mask (or
Reveal Selection if there is one). Instead, Alt-click the button for a
Hide All Mask (or Hide Selection).
OR
• Choose Mask>Add Mask from the Layers menu and then one of the
following from the submenu: