How to Create a Clipping Path in Photoshop Featured Image

How to Create a Clipping Path in Photoshop in 2023

Want to create a clipping path in Photoshop? But don’t know how? Or want to know how does a clipping path really work?

Then, nothing to worry about, as this is easy to utilize. You just need to follow some steps correctly. 

In this article, we’ve talked about clipping path formulas that will require just a few clicks.

What is a Clipping Path?

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So, what is the clipping path in Photoshop? It is basically a vector shape to make outlines on your object for cutting it out. You can also call it deep etching, which means the digital version of cutting out something. Knowing how to create a clipping path in Photoshop is a must for every graphic designer and photographer.

Why is Clipping Path Important?

Images are very important for any business, especially if it’s an e-commerce business. The one tool that can do wonders for you is Photoshop!

Since there is a growing number of online product marketing, Clipping Path service is in greater demand. Visually appealing items attract customers’ attention. And Clipping path technique can be used to enhance the visual appeal of product photographs.

Again, high-quality images attract consumers to your business. They will show their interest only if they find the image appealing. Good photos can promote your sales and establish brand value. So, it’s important to focus on the images. 

But you can’t edit your images if you don’t create a clipping path on Photoshop. You need proper and standard edits for quality content. This is why clipping path has become a crucial part of photo or image editing.

Step-by-step Process to Create Clipping Path in Photoshop

It is pretty easy to create a clipping path in photoshop. You just need to implement some tools correctly. We’ll be discussing the step-by-step process of doing it.

Let’s get started.

Step 1- Open the File

Open the File

First, open your Adobe Photoshop software and open the image file.

Step 2- Select the Pen Tool 

Select the Pen Tool

Select the pen tool from the Toolbar menu option.

Step 3- Create Anchor-Points

Create Anchor-Points

Zoom in on your picture at first to look at the edges. Adjusting it will make it more accurate.

At this point, start aiming at the edges of the piece you want to cut away. These spots are referred to as anchor points. Then again, make marks back to the starting point.

Step 4- Inside Path

This image shows another empty spot within the handle. Now create another path inside.

Step 5-  Save the Path

save the path

If you completed marking, click on the layer panel. Then choose the path tab. After that, click on the “Save Path” option from the menu section, naming it “Path 1”.

Step 6- Create a Clipping Path

Create a clipping path

You will get the” Clipping Path” option on the same menu. Select it. 

A box will pop up with substitutes. 

There’s an option for Flatness which determines the distance between the clipping path and the photo edge. It controls the flatness of a photo. Also, if the flatness value is raised, the edge becomes hazier. The border will be more supple and clear if the value is lower.

Step 7- Save the Photo

Save the Photo

Now you can save the image. You can edit the file anytime and send it to the others. You can also save the file into PSD and JPEG as well.

If you save the image, you can modify it anytime you want. Like, changing the background of the image.

All you need to do is, develop a clipping path in Photoshop and select the “Make Selection” option. You can use a layer mask to remove the background image.

Why Do You Need to Use a Clipping Path?

There are several reasons to use a clipping path in Photoshop. Below are a few of them:

Background Removal

The clipping Path is basically used for removing the photo background. You need to generate a clipping path on Photoshop first to make any changes to the photo background, including color changes or making it transparent.

Retouching or Color Correction

Another purpose is an image retouching and color correction. We can choose a specific section of an image or remove it using a clipping path. It also allows us to modify that specific area individually.

Taking Out Unnecessary Parts

Another basic usage of the clipping path is to remove undesired portions of the image. It’s common for extra elements to appear in photographs as they are being taken. You can perform a clipping path before removing certain portions from your picture if you want to.

Photo Manipulation and Restoration

You can also use a clipping path in Photoshop for manipulation and restoration. If you want to touch up an image, you need clipping. The same goes for masking. This means you need to ensure clipping first for both purposes. These are important in photoshop editing.

E-commerce photography requires all these things to ensure high-quality photographs that look natural so the audience gets attracted by the photos.

Final Words

Well, there are many approaches to getting the ideal results when designing anything that calls for an image cutout. It depends on the type of picture you’re working with and the background on which it will be positioned. The most popular technique is Photoshop clipping paths to remove the image.

It’s extremely important to know about making clipping paths on Photoshop if you are into e-commerce product photography. You should never compromise the picture quality. Hope this article helps you understand the process of creating a Clipping Path in Photoshop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my clipping path inverted?

Your clipping path is inverted; probably because while creating the path, you chose “Subtract Front Shape” and not the “Combine Shapes.” From the Path Selection Tool, select your path to fix the issue.

Why do we need clipping?

To make the layering mask and modify your photo background, you will need to make clipping on your Photoshop. It is really helpful for swift changes and upgrades.

How do you create multiple paths in Photoshop?

To make multiple paths, you must select the “Create new path” option from the bottom of the Paths section. Otherwise, you have to save all the parts individually.

How do I turn a path into a selection in Photoshop?

It is easy to turn a path. You just need to press Ctrl+Enter for windows or Cmd+Return for Mac. Photoshop will automatically convert your path into a selection then.