Masked image active area limited to mask shape
Hi, it would be such an improvement in usability if a masked image was only selectable within the mask shape. Currently the entire image is still 'active' and when you click any part of it inside or outside the mask it can be selected. This means when you have multiple masked images close to each other (especially when a tight crop is used, meaning a larger part of the image is hidden but selectable) there are overlaps of images that require locking of individual images or reordering of arrangement to put images in front or behind one another just to select the element you want. Masked images are simple to use in InDesign because they limit selection to the mask shape, with the option of then selecting the entire image if want to move or resize it within the mask. In fact, the entire way masks are handled in InDesign is superior as it doesn't require locking and unlocking the mask in order to resize or move the masked image within it.
Anonymous
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Anonymous
commented
ok, so I think I've got to the bottom of this. There is a difference in how an image with a clipping mask and one with a transparency mask is displayed.
By default I use the transparency mask as I often utilise the transparency options within this mask. The transparency mask keeps the entire masked image 'active', while the clipping mask only keeps the image area within the mask 'active'.
It would be super handy if both mask options acted the same and only made the image area that is within the mask clickable. Maybe something to address in a future update? -
Wow. That’s not how it works usually...
What happens if you try to move such a selection?
Can you share this file to test, please? -
Anonymous
commented
Hi, I'm not using the direct selection tool - it makes no difference if I use the selection or direct selection tool - see screen grab.
Using latest version of Illustrator. -
Hi, mate. Why do you use Direct Selection tool to select your masked images? Just a Selection does exactly what you need, selecting both a mask and an image inside, as a whole... while Direct indeed select a clipped image only, as you demonstrate?
Maybe you mix them?
See, InDesign and Illustrator surprisingly use different cursors for these tools. Illustrator’s Direct is white inside, always, even when you use the darkest theme. InDesign, however, swaps the fills and makes Direct black in the toolbox (but not on canvas). Quite ridiculous.Anyway, no locking or hiding is necessary in Illustrator to do what you describe, if you use the right tool, as I see it.
If not — please demo your workflow, if it does not help, via a video or a GIF.
