Motion & effects
Masking: definition and examples
What is Masking?
Masking is a video editing technique that defines a specific region of the frame using a shape or drawn path, allowing effects, color adjustments, or compositing to be applied only within that area. Masks can be animated to follow a moving subject throughout a scene.
When you'd use it
- 1When you need to apply a color grade or effect to only part of the frame.
- 2When a subject needs to be isolated from the background to apply separate adjustments to each.
- 3When an on-screen graphic or highlight overlay should appear only over a specific product or area.
- 4When combining two clips by revealing one through a custom shape.
- 5When tracking an effect so it follows a moving element, such as a face or product, through the shot.
Example
A creator uses a feathered oval mask to darken the edges of the frame in a product shot, drawing the eye to the product at center. The mask requires no animation because the product is stationary, and the adjustment takes under a minute to apply.
Use cases
- 1Brightening a product in the foreground without blowing out the background by masking around the object.
- 2Applying a blur effect only to a face or logo in the background while keeping the foreground sharp.
- 3Revealing a second video layer through a shape that follows the contour of a product in the frame.
FAQ
What's the difference between masking and chroma key?
Chroma key selects an area by color, removing a specific hue from the entire frame automatically. Masking defines an area by shape, drawn manually or tracked. Masking is more flexible but requires more work; chroma key is faster when you have a clean, evenly lit colored backdrop.
Make on-brand short-form video from the footage you already have.