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What is Path in Adobe Photoshop?

In one-word Path means an element by which we can create precise selec-
tion, custom shapes and vector-based graphics in adobe photoshop. In detail
a path refers to a sequence of connected straight and curved lines that define
a shape. Understanding path is very essential for various design tasks, and
they are often created and manipulated using the Pen Tool.

In another way, using path we can remove background from any images or
we can isolate or detach any object from an image.

Types of Paths:
There are two types of paths: Open Paths & Closed Paths.
 Open Path: A path that does not connects its endpoints, forming a
line.
 Closed Path: A path where the endpoints are connected, creating a
shape.

How can we create a path in Adobe Photoshop?

We can create a path in Adobe Photoshop using the Pen Tool, which allows
us to place anchor points, define the shape by connecting these points with
lines.

Now, here arise a question, what is Pen Tool, how it

works?
The Pen Tool is a powerful and versatile tool commonly found in graphic de-
sign and photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and
other similar software’s. It is primarily used for creating precise and detailed
paths, shapes and selections.

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Along them Photoshop provides multiple Pen Tools. The standard Pen tool
draws with the greatest precision; the freedom Pen tool draws paths as if
we are drawing with pencil on paper, and the magnetic Pen option lets you
draw a path that snaps to the edges of defined areas in your image. When
you use the standard Pen tool the following options are available in the op-
tion bar.

● Auto Add/Delete, which lets you add an anchor point when you click a line
segment or delete an anchor point when you click it.

● Rubber Band, which lets you preview path segments as you move the
pointer between clicks. (To access this option, click the pop-up menu to the
right of the Custom Shape icon.)

How the Pen Tool Works:

 Point Creation:
To use the Pen Tool, firstly select the Pen Tool from the tool bar option or
you can press “P” button on key-board for shortcut then you click to create
points (also known as anchor points) on your canvas. Each click creates a
point, and these points are connected by straight or curved lines.

 Control Handles for Curves:

If you want to create a curved line, you click and drag to create control han-
dles that adjust the shape of the curve. The length and angles of these han-
dles determine the curves characteristics.

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For Example:
● To create a C-shaped curve, drag in a direction opposite to the previous di-
rection line. Then release the mouse button.

Let’s draw the second point in a curve.

● To create a S-shaped curve, drag in the same direction as the previous di-
rection line. Then release the mouse button.

Drawing a S curve (Photoshop only) To change the direction of the curve

sharply, release the mouse button, and then press Alt-drag the direction
points in the direction of the curve. Release the Alt key and the mouse but-
ton, reposition the pointer where you want the segment to be ended, and
drag in the opposite direction to complete the curve segment.

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 Closing Paths:
You can close a Path by connecting the last point to the first. To close a path,
position the Pen tool over the first (hollow) anchor point. A small circle ap-
pears next to the Pen tool pointer when it is positioned correctly. Click or
drag to close the path. A closed path can create a shape which can be filled
or stroked.

 Path Editing:
After creating a Path, you can edit it by adjusting the position of the anchor
points, converting straight segments to curves (and vice-versa), and modify-
ing the control handles.

COMMON USES:
 Graphic Design:
Creating logos, icons, other graphical elements.
 Photo Editing:
Making precise selections for retouching or isolating objects.
 Illustration:
Drawing detailed illustrations with clean lines and shapes.
 Typography:
Designing custom lettering and fonts.
 Web Design:
Creating elements like buttons, banners, and navigation icons.

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Now, again come to the point of Path…

 Clipping Path:
Clipping Paths are used in graphic design for removing the background of an
image. This involves creating a closed path around the subject and when the
image places in a layout, everything outside the path is hidden.

 Path Selection:
After creating any Path by using pen tool we can make the Path into selec-
tion which allows us to select and move entire paths. This selection tool is
handy for adjusting the position or shape of a Path.

 Path Operations:
 Combine Paths: We can combine multiple paths to create more complex
shapes.
 Subtract Paths: We can subtract one path from another to crate complex
selections
 Intersect Paths: We can create a new path based on the overlapping ar-
eas of existing paths.

 Text Paths:
We can use Paths to create custom text paths. Text can follow the shape of
a Path, allowing for creating text arrangements.

 Converting Paths:
Paths can be converted into Selections and Vector masks. This is useful for
isolating and manipulating specific areas of an image.

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 Shape Layers:
We can fill the Path with color to create shape layers. This is useful for cre-
ating solid shapes with defined edges.

 Saving and Loading Paths:

We can save the Paths within a Photoshop documents or as separate files.
Also, we can load saved paths later to continue editing.

Paths are a fundamental concept in Photoshop, providing a way to create

and manipulate precise shapes and selections. Whether you we are working
on graphic design, photo editing, or illustration, understanding the usage of
Paths effectively is essential for achieving professional and polished results.

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