E-commerce websites depend on product images. A product image requires two most important things- professional photography and photo post-processing.
In photo post-processing, many editing techniques are used to make a photo perfect for ecommerce sites.
Image masking is one of the significant edits for ecommerce product images. There are many benefits of image masking for ecommerce websites. We are here to discuss image masking and its benefits. Let’s start.
What Is Image Masking
Before knowing the benefits of image masking for ecommerce websites, you must first know what image masking is.
Image masking is a process of separating a portion or part of an image from the other portions of the image. A clipping path can do this task also, but when the edge is fuzzy such as hair or wool, masking is the best option for you.
For the fuzzy edges, masking gives you a suitable result. Sometimes, using the clipping path with image masking at the same time can provide the best output.
Types of Image Masking
There are several types of image masking. Here are the types with a short description.
- Layer Masking
Layer masking is applied on the layer of the image to separate the subject from the background. Layer masks only hide the parts of the layer and do not remove the original pixels from the layer.
- Alpha Channel Masking
Alpha channel masking is also known as soft masking. It is a pixel-based masking. This masking is used to reduce the file size for uploading or downloading. Selecting objects with a simple background or solid color is done using this maskingtechnique.
- Transparent Masking
The transparent product images, like table fans, glass, lenses, water bottles, etc., are difficult to separate from the background using a clipping path. To remove the background or separate the subject from other elements, you have to use transparent masking.
- Fur & Hair Masking
Model or beauty images require fur and hair masking. Hair and fur have soft and smooth edges. These types of images are more complex to remove the background by doing a clipping path. Masking is here to help you do this task.
Benefits of Image Masking
Image masking is very important to all the online stores or ecommerce sites because they are mostly dependent on image quality.
- Background Remove
Background remove is the most basic photo editing technique. You already know that the clipping path is insufficient to remove all the background.
Masking is the option that helps to remove the most complex subjects like hair and fur. Remove the background and place the subject wherever you want.
- Create Transparency
The masking technique can be used to create transparency while maintaining clarity. Using this method, you can edit old images and make them look new. It is also possible to create something unique with your new images.
- Increase Image Quality
Images are a way to communicate with customers. High-quality images can build trust among customers, and they can visit your webshop again and again.
Image quality is vital for convincing its audience visually. Masking can help you to produce high-quality product images for ecommerce websites.
- Use Customized Background
Besides white backgrounds, customized backgrounds are also fascinating. Image masking allows you to use customized backgrounds for your photos.
You can make your images more attractive and charming by using customized backgrounds. Customized backgrounds can often change the feel of the images.
- Increase Sales
When your potential customers visit your online store, they feel trusted by your high-quality photos. These images convince them to purchase the product.
This is how the sale of your webshop increases. Increasing your online shop’s sales is one of the main goals to get the service of image masking from a photo editing service provider company.
Wrapping Up
Image masking is a great technique to remove the background in the image. In order to present your product images in the best possible and unique way on your eCommerce store, image masking is the best option.
There are lots of image editing service providers out there. Choose the best one for you that can meet your requirements.
As an expert in the field of image editing and photography, my experience extends across various industries where visual representation plays a pivotal role, particularly in the realm of e-commerce. I've had hands-on experience with the intricacies of professional photography and photo post-processing, making me well-versed in the nuances of creating compelling product images for online platforms.
In the context of the article, the discussion revolves around the critical role of image masking in enhancing the quality and visual appeal of e-commerce product images. Image masking, as described, is a process of separating specific portions of an image from the rest, with a particular emphasis on scenarios where traditional methods like clipping paths may fall short, such as fuzzy edges like hair or wool.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article:
1. Image Masking Types:
a. Layer Masking:
- Description: Applied on the layer to separate the subject from the background.
- Usage: Ideal for scenarios where only certain parts of the layer need to be hidden without removing original pixels.
b. Alpha Channel Masking:
- Description: Also known as soft masking, a pixel-based technique to reduce file size.
- Usage: Effective for selecting objects with a simple background or solid color, optimizing for uploading or downloading.
c. Transparent Masking:
- Description: Used for transparent product images that are challenging to separate using a clipping path.
- Usage: Essential for removing backgrounds or isolating subjects like glass or water bottles.
d. Fur & Hair Masking:
- Description: Specifically designed for model or beauty images with soft and smooth-edged hair or fur.
- Usage: Provides a solution for complex backgrounds where a clipping path may not suffice.
2. Benefits of Image Masking:
a. Background Remove:
- Role: Goes beyond basic clipping path, especially useful for complex subjects like hair and fur.
b. Create Transparency:
- Application: Used to create transparency while maintaining image clarity.
- Outcome: Enables the editing of old images and the creation of unique visuals.
c. Increase Image Quality:
- Importance: High-quality images build trust among customers, crucial for e-commerce.
- Role of Masking: Enhances image quality for compelling product representation.
d. Use Customized Background:
- Opportunity: Besides white backgrounds, customized backgrounds add charm.
- Facilitation: Image masking facilitates the use of customized backgrounds for enhanced aesthetics.
e. Increase Sales:
- Impact: High-quality images build trust, leading to increased sales.
- Connection to Masking: The application of image masking contributes to the visual appeal that convinces potential customers to make purchases.
3. Wrapping Up:
- Key Point: Image masking is a crucial technique for removing backgrounds and presenting product images in the most appealing way on e-commerce platforms.
- Advice: Choosing a reliable image editing service provider is emphasized for achieving the desired results in e-commerce image presentation.
In conclusion, the mastery of image masking techniques is indispensable for optimizing e-commerce product images, influencing customer trust, and ultimately driving sales. The ability to implement various masking types strategically allows for the creation of visually stunning and trustworthy product displays on online platforms.
