Photoshop CS4
Create a Mask for the Previous Layer
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How To
Step #1: Click on the visible icon under the LAYERS panel to disable the visibility of a selected top layer.
Step #2: Click on Layer in the top menu bar.
Step #3: Click on Create Clipping Mask.
Result: A mask has been created sucessfully for the previous layer.
Step #2: Click on Layer in the top menu bar.
Step #3: Click on Create Clipping Mask.
Result: A mask has been created sucessfully for the previous layer.
Quick Step
Layer -> Create Clipping Mask
Keyboard Shortcut
Alt + Ctrl + G or Alt + click (on the line dividing two layers)
More Information
The clipping mask uses the contents of a base layer to mask the layers on top of it. The opaque or non-transparent contents of the base layer determines the 'masking' action, and will not show the contents of the layer above it. This action is a fast and convenient way to create a clipping mask when activated via its keyboard shortcuts, Alt+Ctrl+G or Alt+click (on the line dividing two layers).
