Pasting content directly into a layer mask in Photoshop is a straightforward process often used for complex masking effects based on grayscale images or selections.
Here's the exact method based on standard Photoshop practice and the provided reference:
To paste into a layer mask, you first need to target the mask so that your paste operation applies to it rather than the layer content itself. You do this by Alt-clicking (Windows) or Option-clicking (Mac) on the layer mask thumbnail in the Layers panel. This action displays the layer mask as a grayscale image in your document window, making it the active canvas for pasting. Once the mask is visible, you can simply paste (Ctrl+V on Windows or Cmd+V on Mac) the content you have copied. The reference confirms this method: "Once you're viewing the mask, you cmd+v to paste in your copied black and white selection".
Steps to Paste Into a Layer Mask
Follow these steps to paste content into your layer mask:
- Copy Your Content: Copy the image, selection, or grayscale information you wish to paste into the mask. Keep in mind that layer masks interpret content as grayscale values: white reveals, black conceals, and shades of gray partially reveal.
- Locate the Layer Mask: In the Layers panel, find the layer that has the mask you want to edit.
- Target the Mask: Alt-click (Windows) or Option-click (Mac) on the layer mask thumbnail in the Layers panel. Your document window will switch to displaying the grayscale mask itself.
- Paste: With the mask visible and active, paste the copied content by pressing Ctrl+V (Windows) or Cmd+V (Mac).
- Return to Layer View: To see the result of your pasted mask on the actual layer, Alt-click (Windows) or Option-click (Mac) on the layer mask thumbnail again, or simply click on the layer's image thumbnail.
This method allows you to easily transfer detailed grayscale images or complex shapes created elsewhere (even from another document or a different layer's selection) directly into a mask, giving you precise control over layer visibility.
Quick Reference Table
| Action | Windows Shortcut | macOS Shortcut | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| View/Target Mask | Alt + Click Mask | Option + Click Mask | Displays the mask in the document window |
| Paste | Ctrl + V | Cmd + V | Pastes copied content |
By using the Alt-click/Option-click method to display the mask, you prepare it to receive pasted information, providing a direct and efficient way to modify layer mask content using external sources or generated graphics.
