Adjusting the selection edge in Photoshop is typically done using the Select and Mask workspace, which offers precise controls for refining your selection boundary.
After you've made an initial selection using a tool like the Lasso, Marquee, Magic Wand, or Quick Selection tool, Photoshop provides dedicated features to perfect the edges for seamless blending or isolation.
Using the Select and Mask Workspace
The most powerful way to adjust a selection edge is by entering the Select and Mask workspace. This feature provides a dedicated environment with tools and sliders specifically designed for refining selections.
How to access Select and Mask:
- Make an initial selection using any selection tool.
- Look at the Options bar at the top of the Photoshop window.
- Click the "Select and Mask..." button. (Note: In older Photoshop versions, this was the "Refine Edge" button).
As mentioned in the reference: "After you make your selection, hit the select and mask button at the top and a new window will pop up."
Key Adjustments in Select and Mask
Once inside the Select and Mask workspace, you'll see various properties on the right-hand side that allow you to modify the selection edge. The reference highlights two crucial options:
- Shifting the Edge: The reference notes: "On the right there are some options with adjusting the selection by shifting the edge slightly...". This control allows you to expand the selection boundary outward (positive values) or contract it inward (negative values). It's useful for including or excluding a small fringe of pixels around your initial selection.
- Feathering: The reference also states: "On the right there are some options with adjusting the selection... feathering it". Feathering softens the edge of the selection, creating a gradual transition between the selected area and the surrounding pixels. This is essential for blending objects smoothly into new backgrounds.
Besides Shifting Edge and Feather, other common adjustments in the Select and Mask workspace include:
- Smooth: Reduces jaggedness along the selection edge.
- Contrast: Sharpens the transition of the selection edge.
- Refine Edge Brush Tool: Allows you to paint over areas (like hair or fur) to automatically improve complex selections.
The reference correctly points out that this workspace is a "Very helpful feature" that also allows you to "modify/add to your selection here."
Summary of Edge Adjustment Controls
Here's a quick look at the mentioned controls:
| Control | Purpose | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Shift Edge | Expands or contracts the selection boundary | Pushes edge in or out |
| Feather | Softens the transition at the selection edge | Creates a gradual blend |
| Smooth | Reduces jaggedness | Smoothes irregular lines |
| Contrast | Sharpens the edge transition | Creates a harder edge |
By utilizing these options within the Select and Mask workspace, you gain precise control over how your selection interacts with the rest of your image, leading to cleaner composites and more professional results.
