Convert between paths and selections

Last updated on Oct 6, 2026

Use the Paths panel to transform vector paths into pixel selections and convert selection borders into editable vector paths.

Converting between paths and selections lets you combine the precision of vector outlines with the flexibility of pixel-based editing.

Use path-to-selection conversion when you need precise selection borders from vector shapes. Convert selections to paths when you want to refine selection edges using anchor points or save selection shapes for reuse. Any closed path can be selected, and any active selection can become a work path.

Path conversions work bidirectionally through the Paths panel. Quick conversions use default settings, while dialog-based conversions offer control over rendering quality and how new selections interact with existing ones.

Convert a path to a selection quickly

Select the path in the Paths panel.

Click the Load Path as A at the bottom of the Paths panel, or Ctrl + click (Windows) or Command + click (macOS) the path thumbnail.

This method applies your current feather and anti-aliasing settings. The selection border appears immediately on the canvas.

Convert a path to a selection with custom settings

Select the path in the Paths panel.

Alt + click (Windows) or Option + click (macOS) the Load Path as A or choose Make Selection from the panel menu.

In the Feather Radius field, enter a pixel value to soften the selection edge, or enter 0 for a hard edge.

Select Anti-aliased to create smooth transitions between selected and unselected pixels. Keep Feather Radius at 0 when using this option.

Under Operation, choose how the new selection interacts with any existing selection: New Selection replaces the current selection, Add to Selection expands it, Subtract from Selection removes overlapping areas, or Intersect with Selection keeps only common areas.

Select OK.

Note

The Feather Radius determines how far the soft edge extends beyond the selection border. Anti-aliasing smooths jagged edges without creating a gradual fade. For more information on these options, see Refine and soften selection edges.

Convert a selection to a path

Create a selection using any selection tool.

In the Paths panel, click the Make Work Path button to use the default tolerance setting, or Alt + click (Windows) or Option + click (macOS) the button to specify a custom tolerance value.

If the Make Work Path dialog appears, enter a tolerance value between 0.5 and 10 pixels, then select OK.

The work path appears at the bottom of the Paths panel. Lower tolerance values (0.5–2) create more anchor points and follow the selection border more closely. Higher values (4–10) create smoother paths with fewer anchor points.

Note

Photoshop removes any feathering from the original selection when creating the path. The resulting work path is temporary until you save it by double-clicking its name in the Paths panel.

Higher tolerance values work better for clipping paths used in print workflows. For details, see Print image clipping paths.

Create stunning images with Photoshop
Edit, retouch, and transform photos with the industry-leading creative tools you know and love.

Open the app

Use selections for generative editing

Select areas and pixels of images in focus

Learn

Learn with step-by-step video tutorials and hands-on guidance right in the app.

Community

Join discussions, find answers, learn from experts, and share your knowledge.

Adobe Home

Access your favorite Creative Cloud apps, services, file management, and more.