# Image Masking Effect

Apply masking effects to images using shapes, gradients, or custom masks for creative compositions

> Canonical page: https://elysiatools.com/en/tools/image-add-masking

- **Category:** Design

- **Keywords:** image, mask, effect, shape, cutout, transparency, composition, design

## Overview

The Image Masking Effect tool allows you to creatively crop and shape your images by applying geometric shapes, gradients, or vignettes. Easily control transparency, edge softness, and positioning to create professional-grade compositions directly in your browser.

## Inputs

- **Image File** (file): Image to apply masking effect
- **Mask Type** (select): Type of mask to apply
- **Mask Shape** (select): Shape of the mask (when mask type is shape)
- **Mask Position** (select): Position of the mask
- **Mask Size (%)** (number): Size of the mask as percentage of image dimensions
- **Feather Radius (px)** (number): Soft edge radius for the mask (0 for hard edges)
- **Invert Mask** (checkbox): Invert the mask effect (hide masked area instead of showing it)
- **Output Format** (select): Output format for the result image
- **Quality (1-100)** (number): Output quality for lossy formats

## When to use

- When you need to crop images into specific shapes like circles or stars for profile pictures or design assets.
- When you want to create soft-edged transitions or vignettes to focus attention on the center of an image.
- When preparing images for web layouts that require transparent backgrounds or specific cutout styles.

## How it works

- Upload your image file in any standard format like PNG, JPEG, or WebP.
- Select your preferred mask type, such as a geometric shape or a gradient, and adjust the position and size.
- Fine-tune the appearance by adjusting the feather radius for soft edges or inverting the mask to hide specific areas.
- Choose your desired output format and quality, then download the processed image.

## Use cases

- Creating custom-shaped social media profile avatars.
- Generating artistic vignettes for photography portfolios.
- Preparing transparent-background assets for web design and UI mockups.

## Frequently asked questions

### What image formats are supported?

You can upload JPEG, PNG, WebP, GIF, BMP, and TIFF files.

### Can I soften the edges of the mask?

Yes, use the 'Feather Radius' setting to add a soft, blurred transition to the edges of your mask.

### What does the 'Invert Mask' option do?

Inverting the mask hides the area inside the selected shape and keeps the surrounding area visible.

### Can I change the output file format?

Yes, you can export your result as a PNG, JPEG, WebP, or AVIF file.

### Is there a limit to the file size?

The tool supports image files up to 10MB.

## Related tools

- [Add Border to Image](https://elysiatools.com/en/tools/image-add-border): Add customizable borders to images with various styles, colors, and widths
- [Add Frame to Image](https://elysiatools.com/en/tools/image-add-frame): Add decorative frames to images with various styles like classic, modern, vintage, and custom designs
- [Add Glow Effect](https://elysiatools.com/en/tools/image-add-glow): Add beautiful glow effects to images with customizable color, intensity, size, and style variations
- [Image Gradient Overlay](https://elysiatools.com/en/tools/image-add-gradient): Add gradient overlay effects to images with customizable colors, directions, and blend modes
- [Add Noise Effect](https://elysiatools.com/en/tools/image-add-noise): Add various types of noise effects to images with customizable intensity and parameters
- [Add Pattern Effect](https://elysiatools.com/en/tools/image-add-pattern): Add geometric pattern overlays to images with customizable colors, size, and rotation
- [Add Reflection Effect](https://elysiatools.com/en/tools/image-add-reflection): Add water reflection effects to images with customizable height, blur, and transparency
- [Add Shadow Effect](https://elysiatools.com/en/tools/image-add-shadow): Add realistic shadow effects to images with customizable direction, blur, color, and intensity

## Samples

- [Web Image Processing Python Samples](https://elysiatools.com/en/samples/web-image-processing-python): Web Python image processing examples using PIL/Pillow including reading, saving, resizing, and format conversion
- [Web Image Processing TypeScript Samples](https://elysiatools.com/en/samples/web-image-processing-typescript): Web TypeScript image processing examples including image read/save, scaling, and format conversion
- [Android Image Processing Java Samples](https://elysiatools.com/en/samples/android-image-processing-java): Android Java image processing examples including reading/saving images, scaling, and format conversion
- [Android Image Processing Kotlin Samples](https://elysiatools.com/en/samples/android-image-processing-kotlin): Android Kotlin image processing examples including reading/saving images, scaling, and format conversion

## Related content

- [Texture, Grain, Pattern, and Reflection Overlays for Images](https://elysiatools.com/en/hubs/image-texture-and-creative-overlay-effects): Dress a finished image with material character — mask where the effect applies, add film grain or surface texture, overlay geometric patterns, and extend the composition with water reflections.