How Do I Move an Image Mask in Photoshop?

Moving an image mask in Photoshop depends on whether you want to move the mask independently of the image layer or move them together.

Moving the Image and Mask Together

This is the most common scenario. To move both the image and its associated mask simultaneously:

Select the Layer: In the Layers panel, click on the layer containing the image and its mask.
Use the Move Tool: Select the Move Tool (V) from the toolbar.
Drag: Click and drag the image. The layer mask will move in perfect sync, maintaining the masked area's position relative to the image. This is the simplest method for most adjustments. As stated in a July 15, 2024 article, "With the layer mask in place, you can now move the image within the mask by selecting the layer and using the Move tool (V). As you drag the image around, the layer mask will move with it, allowing you to reposition the subject or object within the composition."

If you need to move the mask without affecting the image's position:

Unlink the Mask: Look for a small chain link icon between the layer thumbnail and the mask thumbnail in the Layers panel. Click this icon to unlink the mask from the layer.
Select the Mask: Click directly on the mask thumbnail in the Layers panel. This will highlight the mask. Alternatively, you can choose the Move tool (V) and, while holding down the Alt (Windows) or Option (Mac) key, click on the mask to move it.
Move the Mask: Use the Move Tool (V) to drag the mask to its new position. The image layer will remain stationary. Several sources confirm this method: a Reddit post from December 2023 states that "If you want to move a mask, but not change it, you can click the Link icon between the image and the mask and then move them around separately." An Adobe community post from April 2023 also clarifies that "Click on the chain link between the mask and image to remove the chain. Then highlight either the mask or image to move independently."

Remember, after unlinking, you can relink the mask and layer by clicking the chain link icon again if needed.