Using Masks in Studio

Layer masking is a design technique used to perform targeted edits such as hiding parts of a design element without erasing them.

Designers can use other shapes or assets to control the transparency of an element and make image composites. While element opacity controls the transparency of the entire element, a mask gives more precise control over specific areas and removes the need to use external software to adjust the assets before using them in Studio designs. Learn how to create masks here. 

Important Information

• If any of the elements used as mask contains an alpha channel, the transparency in the alpha will also show in the mask.
• If these elements contain an alpha channel this will also be reflected in the masking of the elements that need to be masked.

Using Masks

1. Navigate to Studio.
2. Either create a new design or edit an existing one.
3. Click Edit Design.
4. There are two ways to add a mask to an element.

Option 1 

1. 1. Select the element that you'd like to mask.
   2. In the Mask section in the property list on the right-hand side.
   3. Select + New shape element from the dropdown.
   4. This will create a rectangle shape mask that is automatically applied to the element.
   5. The element will now only be visible within the confines of that shape.

Option 2

1. 1. 1. Use an already existing element or group as a mask.
         Select the item you want to be masked.
      2. In the Mask section in the property list on the right-hand side, select any element or group that you'd like to function as the mask.
      3. It is best practice to name your mask element so it is easier to find in the list.

Masks in Videos

• For video designs, the supported file type that contains alpha is QuickTime Prores 4444

• The supported file type that contains alpha is Quicktime Prores 4444.

• You can use Quicktime Videos with alpha as a mask.

• Masks in video designs can be animated