Clipping Path in Photoshop is one of the essential techniques to master when it comes to photo editing in Adobe Photoshop. If you are an e-commerce owner, a graphic designer, or a photographer, precise cut-out creation is a must for professional and clean-looking presentations.
Here is a revised version:

Here, we will outline the clipping path method from a beginner’s starting point to expert level. Let’s get started.

What is the clipping path in Photoshop?

A clipping path is a vector path or shape in Photoshop that is used to isolate an image from the background. All objects within the path are preserved; everything else is discarded (or masked). It is like a digital pair of scissors.
This method is especially popular in e-commerce for product photography with a white or transparent background.

Graphic design: Making composite or layered designs
Publishing: Cut-out pack shots for print design and catalogs.

---

The Tools that are Needed for Clipping Path

Before proceeding with the clipping path how-to, ensure that you have

• • Adobe Photoshop (any current version such as CC 2020 and 2024 and above)

• • A graphics tablet (optional but highly beneficial for accuracy)

• • A practice image in high resolution

For Beginner’s Tutorial: How to Make a Basic Clipping Path

Step 1: Open the Image
Start Photoshop and open the photograph you wish to edit. Beginners can use an object with a clear edge and good contrast from the background.

Step 2: Choose the Pen Tool
Use the Pen Tool by selecting it from the toolbar or by pressing P.

 Make sure the top menu is set to “Path” and not “Shape.”

Step 3: Establish Anchor Points
You can specify a path by clicking around the object.  Each click inserts an anchor point. Curves are made by clicking and dragging the direction knobs.

 Tip: Zoom in (Ctrl +) to work more precisely along the edges.

Step 4: Close the Path
To finish the course, click on first place once more. When the path is closed, a tiny circle will appear next to the pen icon.

Step 5: Save the Path.
Selecting Window > Paths will bring up the Paths panel.  

 Double-click the “Work Path” and give it a name (e.g., “Clipping Path”)

Step 6: Make the path for clipping. In the Paths panel, select Clipping Path by clicking the menu icon (≡).  Select your saved path and click OK.
Now your clipping path is set!

---

What Can You Do With a Clipping Path?

After creating the path, you can

• • Create a selection: Right-click the path > Make Selection > OK

• • Create a mask: While the selection is active, create a layer mask addition.

• • Export: Save the file as PSD or export it with a transparent background (PNG, TIFF)

    Not everything is straightforward. Objects with intricate edges—like hair, fur, or transparent elements—require a more advanced approach.

Combining Clipping Path with Layer Masks
Use clipping paths for the object’s solid areas and layer masks or Refine Edge tools for areas like

• • Hair

• • Fabric fringe

• • Transparent glass

Utilize Multiple Paths
You can create compound paths—multiple paths that define both the object and internal cutouts (like the handle of a cup). The Path Selection Tool (A) can be used to modify or combine pathways.

Pro Tips for Clipping Path Procedures

Let’s create a higher level now. To increase accuracy and productivity, the experts employ these strategies:

1. Slightly Feathering Edges

Soften the edges by 0.2 to 0.5 pixels to avoid sharp cutouts.

Choose > Adjust > Feather

2. Make use of Bezier curves. Create smooth, curved paths with fewer anchor points by properly mastering the Bezier curve controls. A smoother path means fewer points.

3. Changing Types of Anchor Points

To convert a corner point to a curve (and vice versa), press Alt/Option + click.

Shift aids in maintaining paths’ horizontal and vertical alignment.

4. Shortcuts for Pen Tools:

Action Shortcut

Add a point

Select the path.

Delete Point by pressing Alt/Option + Click.

Point of Conversion

Ctrl/Cmd on point

Go Use Ctrl/Cmd + Drag to point

5. Use Actions to Automate

Create Photoshop Actions for common clipping to save time.

Bonus: Clipping Path vs. Image Masking’s Advanced Feature:

Clipping Path, Image Masking, and Using Vector Pixels Ideal for sharp edges Translucent or soft edges Modifiable?

Extremely, Yes, but with less accuracy. The size of the file Less Heavy When an object has well-defined edges, use clipping paths. When working with transparent or soft areas, use masking.

Typical Errors to Avoid An excessive number of anchor points creates a rough path. Make strategic use of fewer points.

Never close the path; always finish the loop.

Ignoring zoom: To get pixel-perfect edges, you must zoom in.

Ignoring path saving: Make sure to always save your work in the Paths panel.

Applying feather to incorrect images: Feathers should only be used when absolutely required; some items require razor-sharp edges.

How to Apply Clipping Path in the Real World: 

• •  E-Commerce Product Photos

• • When you shop online at places like Amazon or eBay, you’ll notice they often prefer white or transparent backgrounds. That’s where clipping paths come in, giving you those clean product cutouts you see.

• •  Marketing & Branding

• • Whether it’s brochures or banners, clipped images let you unleash your creativity in compositions and layouts.

• •  Print & Publishing

Magazines and catalogs frequently use clipped images to manage how text flows around objects, ensuring everything looks just right.

• • Exporting Clipped Images

• • To keep your clipping path handy for future use or printing:

• • Export for Print

• • Optimize for TIFF with the path embedded.

• • Make sure to select “Clipping Path” under Save Options.

• • Export for Web

• • Choose PNG or WebP for those transparent backgrounds.

• • Use “Save for Web” (File > Export > Save for Web).

Outsourcing vs. DIY: When to Choose Clipping Path What?

Go DIY if:

You’ve got the time and some Photoshop skills.

The project needs a personal touch.

You’re only working with a handful of images.

Outsource if:

You’re dealing with hundreds or thousands of images.

You want to concentrate on the creative side of things.

You need a quick turnaround.

There are plenty of professional clipping path services out there that offer bulk pricing.

Final Tips for Mastering Clipping Paths

Practice regularly: Just like drawing, your skills will sharpen with practice.

Use high-resolution images. Zooming in only works if the image quality is up to par.

Upgrade your tools: A pen tablet can really boost your accuracy and comfort.

Stay in the loop: Photoshop updates often bring enhancements for path handling and export options.

Conclusion

Clipping paths are not just a beginner’s trick in Photoshop—they’re a powerful tool for professionals that enables precise image editing, flexible design workflows, and stunning visuals. From simple selections to intricate cutouts, mastering this technique can elevate your digital content significantly. When it comes to producing eye-catching marketing images or product photography, knowing clipping paths is crucial. Now launch Photoshop, take out the Pen Tool, and begin cutting like an expert!

Want more Photoshop tutorials and editing tips? Follow our blog post  for weekly pro design tricks.