Open a photo in Detail view, and then select Masking > Create new Mask .
Last updated on
Jun 5, 2026
Learn how to apply selective adjustments to specific areas using AI-powered tools and manual selection methods.
Masking allows precise control over specific areas of your photo, letting you adjust exposure, color, and other settings without affecting the rest of the image.
Create a mask with AI-powered selection
AI-powered masks automatically detect and select subjects, sky, or background in your photo using Adobe Sensei technology.
In the Create new Mask panel, select one of the following tools:
- Select Subject: Apply an AI-powered mask to the main subject in the photo.
- Select Sky: Apply an AI-powered mask to enhance the sky area in the image.
- Select Background: Apply an AI-powered mask to the background.
Adobe Lightroom automatically defines the area you want to mask.
Select one of the following mask enhancement tools, and then adjust the respective sliders:
- Light: Controls brightness and tonal values within the masked area.
- Color: Adjusts color temperature, Tint, Saturation, and Hue in the masked area.
- Effects: Applies Texture, Clarity, and Dehaze adjustments to the masked area.
- Detail: Refines Sharpness and reduces Noise in the masked area.
- Optics: Corrects lens-related artifacts in the masked area.
Select Done to save your edits.
Note
After you create a mask, Lightroom automatically names it Mask 1. Manage masks to stay organized when working with multiple masks in complex edits.
You can add multiple masks to a single photo to edit different areas independently. To add another mask, select Create new Mask again, and then select a different masking tool.
Create a mask with Brush tool
The Brush tool lets you paint a mask directly onto your photo with precise control over brush diameter, softness, and spread.
Open a photo in Detail view, and then select Masking > Create new Mask .
In the Create new Mask panel, select Brush.
Adjust the following settings to define the area you want to mask:
- Size: Drag the slider to change the brush diameter.
- Feather: Drag the slider to increase or decrease the softness of the edges.
- Flow: Drag the slider to control how quickly and widely the mask applies.
Paint over the area you want to mask.
In the Masking panel, select a mask enhancement tool, and then adjust the respective sliders.
Select Done to save your edits.
Tip
Zoom in for more precise brush work on small details. Use a lower Flow setting for gradual, controlled masking. If needed, use the Eraser tool to remove parts of the mask and paint again.
Create a gradient mask
Open a photo in Detail view, and then select Masking > Create new Mask .
In the Create new Mask panel, select one of the following tools:
- Linear Gradient: Apply masks that fade smoothly across your photo. Ideal for adding effects over skies, horizons, or landscapes.
- Radial Gradient: Create oval-shaped masks. Useful for vignettes, spotlights, or drawing attention to a central subject.
Drag the blue pin over your photo to position the gradient's center.
To adjust the position and size of the mask, do the following:
- Linear Gradient: Select and rotate the outer white line to adjust the gradient angle. Drag the outer white line outward or inward to expand or contract the effect.
- Radial Gradient: Drag the white pins to adjust the oval’s size and shape. Adjust the Feather slider to control how softly the mask transitions.
In the Masking panel, select a mask enhancement tool, and then adjust the respective sliders.
Select Done to save your edits.
Create a range-based mask
Open a photo in Detail view, and then select Masking > Create new Mask .
In the Create new Mask panel, select one of the following tools:
- Color Range: Selects areas based on color, letting you adjust specific hues without affecting the rest of the image.
- Luminance Range: Selects areas based on brightness levels, useful for targeting highlights, shadows, or midtones.
In the panel that appears, select one of the following Mode:
- Pointer: Select and drag to select an area in the photo.
- Rectangle: Drag a rectangle around the area you want to select in your photo.
You can also select the respective sliders to Refine the selection range manually.
Select Apply and do the following:
- Color Range: Select Change Color to sample a different color.
- Luminance Range: Select Change Luminance to redefine the brightness selection.
In the Masking panel, select a mask enhancement tool, and then adjust the respective sliders.
Select Done to save your edits.
Combine AI-powered selections with manual tools for precise control. For example, select Select Subject to quickly isolate a person, then select the Brush tool to refine edges or add specific details.
