In the previous articles, we talked about clipping path and clipping mask. Those who are new learners on Photoshop may not find the basic differences between these two popular applications. Both of these Photoshop tools are massively popular in the print media market. Let us take a clear and concise look again on these vital editing tools. By clipping path, we mean a small path that created around a photo to crop it from its current background and replacing it into another one. To create clipping path one need to install the latest and updated version of Photoshop. One must keep in mind that while creating the paths it is good to start from the right side. Since the last path will merge with the last path. Clipping is at its best when done using a pen tool. Many outsourcing agencies prefer using a magic wand or, any automated tool but the result wont be that good. Therefore, an automated tool creates hard edges around the photo. Hence, pen tool creates smooth edges and makes it look natural.
Now what is clipping mask? A clipping mask has a vast difference from clipping path. It is very much professional and needs a lot of skills and expertise. Clipping mask can identify even the most complicated part of a photo. Like a bird feather. You can do anything you want with masking from color changing to creating designs. For this reason, in the industry of designing there is no second option available for Clipping Mask . For example, we see lipstick ads, on which lipstick colors changes dramatically within a second. We browse and choose our desired one. However, why can a single model wear 100s of lipstick at a time? Now, the same question may arise in your mind. This is all the perfect application of clipping mask. It can change the complete scenario even of an ordinary photo.

The top five differences between clipping mask and clipping path is as follows – 1) Clipping path helps to change the photo background. As a result, it is popular for this specific feature only, where clipping mask can change the overall look of the photo. 2) Masking can identify even the most critical part of any photograph but clipping path cannot. 3) Clipping path usability is not as professional as masking. 4) A masking photo is more real and natural. 5) Masking requires depth knowledge on graphic designing, but clipping path requires minimum sense of designing.