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Adding selection of separate layer to layer mask?


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ArgoshKobash

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Hi everyone,

I have a stock photo and a separate image file that is the black and white layer mask for that photo, but I cannot figure out how to add the selection of this black and white mask and to the actual layer mask for the photo.

blocks 1 (toys stacking).jpg blocks 1 (toys stacking).png

It's been incredibly frustrating trying to figure out how to do this as I am new Photoshop and it seems like such a simple problem to solve. I'm very thankful for any help you can give.

-Drew
 
Welcome to the forum ArgoshKobash.

The images are now in one file right? If not, put them in one (not trying to insult your intelligence, just not sure of your experience).

Now control click on the thumbnail for the black and white layer. Select the image layer and now click the mask icon at the bottom of the layers panel.

Hope this is what you want. If not, come back and rephrase your question :mrgreen:
 
Hey ibclare thanks a lot for the reply.

So I have in one file: Layer 1 (top layer) = black and white layer, Layer 2 = image layer (duplicate of Layer 3), Layer 3 = Background

I'm using a Mac so I used Command-Click instead of Control-Click to select the contents of the black and white layer. Then I clicked the image layer and added a layer mask.

Unfortunately this layer mask is empty and does not contain the contents of my black and white layer. This approach that you described was the first thing I tried and was pretty surprised that it didn't work. Very frustrating. Any suggestions?
 
You will probably need to refine the mask or you will have halos around the blocks. If it doesn't have to be precise, go to select>modify>contract and do 1 pixel. This image can't tolerate anymore than that. It would be better if you had a higher resolution image. You can also try the refine mask option. Another thing you can do, is some images will transform into larger sizes without much damage. This one for instance would be easy for Photoshop. Then you can refine your selection or mask and have more room to maneuver. Then adjust your size to what you need.

My thoughts are a bit behind my writing today. It occurs to me that you probably have a higher res img as I just copied it into PS. So either option, contract or refine selection or mask should work.
 
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so your black and white layer is not a mask.
Well your option would be to select either black or white using colour range then select your coloured image and then click the layer mask button this will automatically apply a mask based on your selection.
select white to reveal it
select black to hide.
 
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