InDesign first came out in the market in 1999. This professional software is popular among professionals who design and create print and digital materials. A clipping path is a key tool of this industry-standard page layout program. This special tool of this publishing software application is used for photo manipulation and composition. Let’s learn what is photo clipping path in InDesign and how to use it.
What is Photo Clipping Path in InDesign?
A clipping path in InDesign is a vector shape, line, or series of lines to isolate an object from an image. It creates complex, highly attractive layouts and seamlessly integrates into multiple layouts.
Creating deep-etching thoroughly in InDesign allows you to achieve images with sharp edges and fine details.
Common Uses of Clipping Paths in InDesign
Product Catalogs: You can create various product catalogs using deep etching in InDesign, such as
- Fashion Lookbooks
- Electronics
- Jewelry
- Furniture Catalogs
Brochures: This powerful tool enables you to make:
- Real Estate Listings
- Restaurant Menus
- Travel Guides
- Wedding Brochures
Flyers: Users can create various printed or digital promotional materials, such as
- Gym Advertisements
- Event Invites
- Travel Promotions
- Fitness Programs
How to Create a Clipping Path in InDesign?
Drawing a deep etching in InDesign is slightly different than using Adobe Photoshop. The following are the steps to create an image isolation area in InDesign.
Step 01: Import the Image
- Launch the InDesign software on your computer or laptop. Select File > Place. Pick the image you want to edit.
- Right-click on the photo and choose the “Open” option from the drop-down lists.
Step 02: Turn the Photo into a Graphic
- Once the image is opened into the professional desktop publishing software, choose Window > Object & Layout > Pathfinder.
- Next, tap on the “Convert Shape” option from the drop-down lists. It will help you fit the picture into a pre-defined shape. The image will have a graphic-like look.
Step 03: Create A Clipping Path
- Navigate to the toolbar section on the left side of the screen and tap on the Pen Tool. The shortcut key is ‘P.’ Use the Pen Tool to create a hand-drawn deep etching.
- Be cautious about the anchor points. It determines how good your drawn image isolation sections will be.
- Add “anchor points” along the subject’s edges and carefully adjust the curve lines. If you accidentally make any mistake, undo it immediately.
Step 04: Apply the Clipping Path
- Once you create a perfect deep-etching, select the area. Head to the menu bar section and choose Object > Clipping Path.
- A dialog box will pop up. Hover over to the “Type” menu section and select the Detect Edges option.
- Once you have determined the options, tap on the “OK” option.
- Now, the screen will show the hand-drawn deep-etching while concealing the outside portion.
How to Adjust a Clipping Path in InDesign?
Your handmade image extraction section may need a slight adjustment for a clean and accurate cut-out.
Step 01: Use the Direct Selection Tool
- Navigate to the toolbar section and select the Direct Selection tool.
- Tap on the individual anchor point and modify or remove the point based on your requirements.
Step 02: Adjust the Clip Options
- Again, go to the Clipping Path dialog box and choose the “Inset Frame” option. It lets you set a slight margin or border within the frame’s edge.
- Choose the “Threshold” settings from the same dialog box. It can identify and outline the distinct boundaries between different objects, colors, or contrast areas.
Step 03: Use the Detect Edges Option
- If you want to conceal the darkest or lightest section of your image, use the Detect Edges option.
- But this function goes well with a subject with a solid white or black background. Choose Object > Clipping Path > Detect Edges to use this function.
- Once you have made an accurate deep etching, save the graphic.
Conclusion
When it comes to creativity and preciseness, deep-etching plays a vital role in seamlessly integrating images into layouts. We have already outlined what is photo clipping path in InDesign and how to use this software to make hand-drawn image isolation paths.
