How do I make a specific area of an image transparent.

[Luzarin]

The screenshot does help. I can see what you did and how you did it. Ok Luzarin, when you want to apply effects to a text layer, it's best to NOT rasterize or merge layers. That's what I think you did here. Instead, create the text and duplicate the layer. Use one layer for layer styles and the other for other effects such as the wind effect you used.

Oh thanks for the advice. When you mentioned using one layer for layer styles and the other for other effects, do you mean using the duplicated text layer ?

Actullay, I followed the following video tuturial Photoshop CS5 Fire Flame Text Effect HD - YouTube

 

[ChrisHPZ]

Yes Luzarin, that's exactly what I mean. The reason behind this is that it's easier to keep track of your effects when you separate them amongst duplicated layers.