Photoshop Creative Issue 86: The Power of Masks

The Power of Masks Takes Centre Stage 🎭

Photoshop Creative Issue 86 puts layer masks at the heart of better image editing. The cover feature explains why masks are worth learning: they make selections cleaner, allow adjustments to be refined without destroying pixels, and open up composite work where images need to blend naturally rather than sit awkwardly on top of one another.

If masks have always seemed like one of Photoshop’s optional extras, this issue makes the case for treating them as a core skill. The feature walks through practical reasons to use them and shows how they support more flexible, reversible editing.

Inside the Issue 🎨

Beyond the cover feature, Issue 86 gathers a broad set of tutorials and features for Photoshop users. Secrets of Sharpening examines four sharpening methods and how they can be used to improve blurred or soft photos. Other projects explore gradient maps for tone and colour, the Art History Brush, creative shadows, twinkling typefaces, X-ray effects, painted portraits, screenprint-style images, composite scenes, portrait drama, fractal abstraction, and paint-and-ink effects.

There is also a dedicated 16-page beginners section, making room for newcomers who need a clearer introduction to Photoshop tools and workflows.

Reader Inspiration and Expert Insight ✨

The issue keeps its usual mix of community and critique. Readers’ galleries display work from Photoshop Creative followers, the Readers’ Challenge invites submissions, and Q&A pages tackle common Photoshop problems. Creative reviews look at new gadgets and software, while the issue includes an expert interview with digital artist Peter Jaworowski.

As an extra resource, the issue highlights 110 minutes of video tutorials plus free brushes, photos, and actions.

Who Will Find It Useful 🖌️

This issue suits Photoshop users who want project-led learning rather than abstract theory. Beginners can use the starter section and step-by-step guides to build confidence, while more experienced readers can focus on masking, compositing, colour control, and stylised effects. Photographers, digital artists, and hobbyists who enjoy following along with practical tutorials will find plenty to try.