Moving layer mask question

[David Leedy]

Hi,
I'm new to Elements. I'm running version 6 on the Mac.

I've downloaded and installed Elements+ from: http://www.simplephotoshop.com

I'm able to create masks ok, but I can't figure out how to move them with the photo. I'd like to group the picture with the mask somehow so I can move them both as one and move them around the page. Right now I can only move the photo and mask individually.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks!!

[Byron Gale]

David,

Do you refer to a Layer Mask created by one of your downloaded actions?

I have used a layer mask add-in from at least four different sources, and they all create a "linked" layer mask. (But, then, I am using Windows, so perhaps it is different on a Mac.)

When you create an adjustment layer, and view the layer in the Layers palette, do you not see a small chain link between the image thumbnail and the mask thumbnail?

Perhaps your layer mask add-in creates an un-linked mask?

In Windows, when you view the masked layer in the Layers palette, if you place your cursor between the image thumbnail and the layer mask thumbnail, and then click, you can either link or un-link the image and mask.

Linked will move them in unison when using Move or Transform, unlinked will necessitate/allow them to be moved independently.

HTH,

Byron

[David Leedy]

Bryon,

Thanks for the response. Yes. I'm talking about a layer mask from a downloadable action. that's all I know how to do at this point. I tried using an actions called Elements+ and also tried a mask from Grants Tools...

For both of them the action makes the mask and works as I would expect but they move independently... a real pain.. I'm new to elements.. and somewhat new to the Mac.. but a couple of years ago a did many collages on windows using PhotoShop 7 without a problem.

Interesting that if I load up one of my old PSD collages I see the link you refer to in the layers palette between the image and the mask. I can turn it on or off.... but on a new file created with elements and one of the actions I don't get that little link icon between the thumbnails... Frustrating as all get out... :)

Any advice would really be appreciated!!!!

Thanks

Dave

[David Leedy]

Well jeez.... no sooner did I post this and I think I got mound my problem/solution....

I'm starting with a 12x12 scrapbook size page.. 300 pixels per inch..

What I was doing is dragging pictures from the bottom "Project Bin" thumbnails to my page. These pictures would show up on my blank page somewhat smallish. I didn't really think anything about it. I try the masking actions and can't get the link... they move independently...

Just now... for whatever reason I dragged an open picture to my blank window. So I did NOT use the Project bin thing from the bottom. Now the pictures are being pasted onto my new project at a MUCH Larger size... I'll have to resize them down but no biggie. But now, HORAAY, the layer masks from the actions work as I would expect. I can link them so they move together.

I'm not sure what the purpose of the project bin at the bottom is, but I definitely won't be dragging those thumbnails again..

I'm surprised at the size difference though....

Anyway, thanks again for the advice!!

Dave

[ljameso1]

A lot of people run afoul with the project bin. Try to remember to always drag down onto the bin. and no doubt just as you've gotten the hang of it adobe will change it again.:eek: