Using Layer Masks in Photoshop

One of the most basic parts of Photoshop is layer masks. They are very easy to use and literally will take you 2 seconds to grasp the concept.

Photoshop uses layers to edit an image and those layers can have their opacity adjusted. A layer mask allows you to have more control over the opacity and even only use parts of the image. 

To use layer masks, you'll need at least one other layer. I have gone for three siilar images of roses that I have taken. 

 I arranged the images slightly. You can lower the opacity down in the layers panel to do this as well to help you see where the images will lie.

 To add a layer mask, select the layer you would like to mask and click the white rectangle with a black circle button at the bottom of the layers menu. 

 This will add the mask to the selected layer which shows as white meaning the layer's opacity is 100% and therefore fully visible.

 To lower the opacity in parts of the image, make sure that the black colour is selected and use the paintbrush.

 Start with a low opacity on your brush so the edges are feathered and not a straight cut which can be distracting.

 Once you paint out the parts of the image, black will appear on the layer mask showing that those parts of the image are no longer fully visible.

 Here is the image after I added the layer mask.

 I added another layer mask to the third image.

 And this is my final edit.

For more about the different blending modes when using layers, see here.