So many Methods of Extraction ... Which to use?

[omar1]

Hi guys,
Ive been going through the "Classroom in a book" book and im totally loving photoshop. I just have a couple of concept questions.

I'm into lesson 8 and the book so far has presented so many different methods of extracting image sections ... using the lasso tools, using quick masks, channels, filter > extraction, etc..

They all seem to me to basically lead to the same concept...extracting a section.

Since im new, im not understanding when to use which method.

For example, u can extract an image using one of the magic lasso tools while u can also use the quick mask & brush tool to create your selection. Then u can also use Filter > Extraction & the highlighter.

What's the difference between all these methods that basically do the same thing.

Can an experienced photoshop user shed some light for me. I'm sure im missing something. I just want to make sure im understanding properly the logic behind these tools & methods.

Are these just various ways so the user uses whatever is easier or is there something more complex im missing?

Thank you!!!!

[Vicky Cravey]

It depends on what you feel comfortable with. You have to try out the various methods, practice with different images, and get a feel for it. While one pro user would use the extract filter, another pro-just as competative as the first-would use masks.

I personally don't like the magnetic lasso/lasso tools...probably because they don't seem as good as Illustrator's pen tool, which I was used to using before I met Photoshop. But, some people swear by it.

I like using the Extract filter, but some people think it's a waste of space in Photoshop...and personally, I CAN do fine without it...by just using masks. But I think the extract tool is fun. 8^)

[Unknown]

A huge majority of the real work in Photoshop is in creating accurate selections...by whichever methods that are the most efficient given a particular situation. So, it helps to be comfortable with all of them.

After mastering that, most of the rest is gravy.

[Mike Marketello]

Sometimes more than one on the same selection. I don't have a real steady hand so sometimes I mask with the polylasso feathered at 2 px, then switch over to a brush to soften some of the edges.

I haven't had any luck with the extraction command. I have spent hours experimenting with it because others have said it works well, but I haven't come close to a decent result yet.

[Mark Reynolds]

Theres basically 2 techinques ...

1 Raster selections 裏 these can be made using channels or the "extract" filter. Magic wand, background eraser, advanced blending options also fall into this category.

2 Path selections 裏these can be traced manually with the pen tool or started as raster paths and modified.

After years experience I have found that at least 8 times out of 10 I will use the pen tool/direct selection tool to create a truly accurate selection. This creates a mathematically accurate selection which is resolution independant. If there is any uncertainly to the edges, the vector mask (Layer clipping path since version6) can be rasterised and modified later.

[LenHewitt]

Omar,

It's true of many, many tasks in Photoshop - there are many ways of
accomplishing the same result.

Often, which method is more suitable depends upon the subject matter.

--

Len
Posted from the UK

[omar1]

Thanks guys for all your comments! It has enhanced my understanding.