How to Use the Pen Tool to Make Selections in Photoshop

When you are new to Photoshop, the Pen Tool can be one of the most difficult features to really become proficient in. Still, it is a very valuable tool and one that is definitely worth taking the time to learn and master. This great video tutorial will show you how it works and what you can do with it.

Coming to you from Anthony Morganti, this helpful video tutorial will show you how to use the Pen Tool in Photoshop. The Pen Tool can be tricky to use, but it is the best way to make the most precise selections possible. Photoshop has lots of great tools to help you quickly make selections, but when it comes to highly complex objects where the automated methods fail, the Pen Tool can always handle whatever level of precision and complexity you need to tackle. The Pen Tool is extra useful, as the paths are also fully editable, so if you make a mistake or need to change something after you have made the selection, you have the option to do so. Nonetheless, if you still find you are having trouble with the Pen Tool after watching the above tutorial, be sure to check out the Bézier Game, which will give you lots of helpful practice with it. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Morganti. 

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Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.

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Thanks. A clear tutorial. May I add that it is possible to select the colour of the path line so that it isn't lost on the subject - as it appears in the bowl of strawberry example.