The main advantage of using a layer mask in image editing software like Photoshop is that it allows you to make changes to an image without permanently altering the original pixels. This is because layer masks work by controlling the visibility of a layer, rather than directly modifying the image data.
This "non-destructive" editing approach offers several benefits:
- Flexibility: You can easily adjust the mask at any time, revealing or hiding different parts of the layer without affecting the underlying image.
- Reversibility: You can always go back to the original image by deleting the mask or resetting it to its default state.
- Precision: You can create intricate masks using various tools and techniques to isolate specific areas of the image with high accuracy.
For example, if you want to add a color overlay to a specific part of a photo, you can use a layer mask to selectively apply the color to that area while leaving the rest of the image untouched. You can then refine the mask as needed, making it easier to achieve the desired effect without permanently affecting the original image.
