Photoshop Pen Tool Tutorial – Understanding & Using Pen Tool the Easy Way (VIDEO)
In this tutorial we will be using the Pen tool to make a selection which will involve both straight as well as curved lines. I know how frustrating the Pen Tool can be. Therefore this video is deliberately made in such a way that even a complete beginner can understand how to use pen tool in Photoshop for selection.
You can download the practice image shown in the video by using the link below:
https://www.pexels.com/photo/low-angle-view-of-gray-concrete-building-beside-black-post-601906/
This video is from our Master Selections in Photoshop course which has 35 videos and 6 hours of video content. You can check out the full course by using the link below (available via Udemy.com):
Master Selections in Photoshop
Here is the video:
Video Summary
This tutorial from Creative Pad Media demystifies the Photoshop Pen Tool, often considered one of the most frustrating tools for beginners to master.
The Fundamental Problem
Many beginners use the Pen Tool like a “connect-the-dots” game, placing too many points. This results in jagged, unnatural edges [02:46]. The goal is to use as few Anchor Points as possible to create smooth, flowing paths.
How to Use the Pen Tool (The Easy Way)
- Straight Lines: Simply click once to place an anchor point, and click elsewhere to create a straight segment [04:31].
- Creating Curves: Click at the end of a curve, but do not release the mouse button. Drag the mouse to pull out Direction Handles. These handles define the degree and direction of the curve [05:32, 06:01].
- The “Next Point” Secret: After making a curve, the next anchor point will often have a “weird” angle because it follows the previous handle.
- Destructive Method: Hold Alt/Option and click the center anchor point to delete the forward-facing handle, letting you start the next segment “fresh” [09:13].
- Non-Destructive Method: Hold Alt/Option and drag the forward handle to point in the direction of your next intended path. This keeps the curve smooth but prevents the tool from guessing the wrong angle [12:04, 12:35].
Why Use the Pen Tool in the AI Era?
While AI tools like “Select Subject” are faster, they rely on contrast. The Pen Tool is still essential in 2023 for:
- Low Contrast Situations: When the subject and background are similar in color (e.g., a dark subject against a dark sky) and AI fails, but your eyes can still see the edge [20:12, 20:42].
- Hard, Defined Edges: It is perfect for man-made objects like cars, lamps, or products, though it is not recommended for organic shapes like hair [20:54].
Turning Paths into Selections
Once your path is closed (by clicking back on the first point), go to the Paths Panel, right-click the “Work Path,” and select “Make Selection” to turn your work into an active edit area [18:49, 19:05].
