Tyler Blogs

In preparation of our annual "Christmas" newsletter, I used Photoshop frequently to get images ready for publication.

One of the neatest, non-destructive tools that is invaluable in wiping out backgrounds is the mask. One of the images I used this on was a shelf with multiple objects on it. The wall behind the shelf wasn't colored, so I wanted to get rid of it. To do this, I used the magic wand, and went through the image adding areas to the magic wand selection. Some of the items blended in with the background and part of them were selected. I wasn't worried, though. I took my time, but I would be getting to the details later.

After selection much of what I wanted to delete, I create a duplicate layer of the image, turn off the original layer, then select the make layer mask icon at the bottom of the palette. The mask shows up in the layers palette next to the duplicated layer.

Now, to touch up, I select the mask, get a black/white brush and draw. Use a white brush to expose the image, like the items that were similar in color to the background. Use a black brush to erase more of the background. Zoom in for detailing. Nothing on the actual image is changed, just the mask.

Notes:

• You can turn on the background layer and reduce opacity if you want to see the part of the image that has been masked out.
• Handy shortcuts for this are the X, to swap foreground/background (black/white) colors, the [ and ] to decrease/increase the size of the brush, and Ctrl+, Ctrl- to zoom in and out.
• Press the spacebar to use the mouse and drag the image around.
• Remember to use the navigator to position the part of the image you want to work on.

Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Christ, and may have been established by the Catholic church in the 4th century. Although some aspects of Christmas may have roots in pagan philosophy, Christmas is still primarily a recognition of the miracle of Christ’s coming. In our gift-giving tradition, the philosophy is that Christ was a gift to us. In reality, the truth of Christ and the gospel is more than giving gifts. Christ came for another reason. Christ came to call the world to belief in Him and offer himself up to bring us salvation.

There are endless sentimental stories about Christmas and the goodness of others and God. Much of today’s Christmas stories have to do with family gatherings, and caring for others. Having someone that cares is comforting to most anyone. Sentimental things will always be a part of life, but Jesus doesn’t want to be just a sentimental thought. He doesn’t limit himself to any season of the year. His love is strong enough to overcome the most difficult problems and the hardest of times throughout the year.

Our relationship in Christ can’t be just a seasonal thing. In order to live a life that is pleasing to God, and ultimately pleasing to ourselves, we must live it daily. We must make a decision each day, not to live better, but to live as Christ leads us.

It wouldn’t be such a bad thing if the grinch did steal Christmas. We really can live without Christmas, but we can’t really live without Jesus. And we certainly don’t need to die without Him. My prayer is that during this Christmas you find a relationship with Him and meaning in your life. Jesus is more than a reason for the season.

We wish you a
Merry Christmas
and a
Happy New Life