Uploaded May 2024 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago

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Use this technique when creating a selection from a gradient or scanned-in texture using Photoshop. This technique solves the problem of when you want to load a selection from a layer with transparency, but instead some or all of it is opaque.

TIME STAMPS
0:00 Intro
0:19 Why use Alpha Channels?
1:03 Why Loading Selection from a Layer Doesn't Work
2:20 Why Using the Magic Wand Tool Doesn't Work
2:51 Step 1 - Copy the entire layer
3:03 Step 2 - Create a new Alpha Channel
3:20 Step 3 - Paste from clipboard to the Alpha Channel
3:29 Step 4 - Invert Alpha Channel (Important).
3:47 Step 5 - CMD+D to Deselect
4:14 Optional Step - Adjust Levels
4:28 Step 6 - CMD+Click Alpha Channel to load the Selection
4:41 Results - (Test selection by using as a Fill Layer Mask)

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