As with most things, there is a quick way to deep etch your digital photos and then there is the right way. While most programs, like Photoshop, provide several tools to help you execute deep etching, most designers would recommend using a clipping path in order to establish a clean boundary around the image. Deep etching can be a great way to alter photos and create layers of images; however, this technique can have a tendency to leave a ghostly border of the original background around the image you have chosen to deep etch if you do not use the right tools. While using the wand tool is certainly an option, it does not provide the crisp cut that you may desire. For example, an object that has been removed from a bright blue background will have a sort of blue halo if the deep etch is not done carefully, using the most effective tools. Creating clipping paths may prove more time consuming, but ultimately it is your best bet when it comes to creating a professional, deep etch product.
There are a couple helpful hints you might want to consider when it comes to deep etching using a clipping path. After you have selected the image you would like to
deep etch, you will need to create a path by drawing vector lines. It is important that you set the vector lines close enough to the image in order to avoid that ghostly border we mentioned earlier. This means zooming in on the image and setting the clipping path directly between the where the pixel colors begin to blur. This means using the zoom tool so that you can get a better idea of the boundaries of the object. While doing this may slightly shrink the size of your image, it will also ensure that your deep etch is not haunted by its original background color.
The other (perhaps not so) helpful hint is to have patience. Deep etching is definitely a learned skill that takes practice. Take your time and experiment with setting your
clipping Path service.Try setting different vector points as you try and navigate corners and curves. If you are still learning, try setting clipping paths and deep etching objects that are set against a plain background. Many programs do not handle chaotic backgrounds very well, which could mean more frustration for you.
If you are lucky, you may find that your imported image already has an established clipping path outlined. This could save you a lot of work and you will still be able to alter the path in order to create your own, unique deep etch image. You can continue to move vector points and play around with setting different boundaries until you have achieved the desired effect. Once you are able to successfully create your own clipping paths, you will have opened yourself up to new possibilities for creativity. So stay away from easier, less accurate methods and take the time to get comfortable with establishing your own clipping paths.
