Mask AI Frequently Asked Questions

Table of Contents

• What is Mask AI?
• What should I use Mask AI for?
• Can I use Mask AI as a Plugin and Standalone Application?
• How do I use the Trimap?
• What File Types are supported?
• What Color Profiles are supported by Mask AI?
• What about RAW File Types?
• Can I change the Default Trimap Color?
• How can I change from GPU to CPU?
• Do you have any User Guides for Mask AI?
• How do I start a trial?
• How do I save the Trimap for later use?

What is Mask AI?

Mask AI is an intelligent tool that allows you to create a mask quickly and accurately by using the power of AI technology. Compared to Photoshop, Mask AI doesn’t need tedious brushwork to get a high-quality mask. And there’s no need to learn complicated icons and tools. With Mask AI you only need to roughly outline your subject in blue, one-click fills what you want to cut, one-click fills what you want to keep, and press “Compute Mask”. It’s really that simple. Our neural network has been trained to distinguish tough edges, so you can get a great mask on the first attempt.

What should I use Mask AI for?

You should use Mask AI any time you need a mask in your workflow, especially challenging and detailed masks. It can be a pain to make a good cut-out in Photoshop, and it can take up an entire day’s work. Mask AI’s intuitive color-coded system reduces it to 4 simple steps: keep, cut, compute, and replace.

Can I use Mask AI as a Plugin and Standalone Application?

Please note, Mask AI functions as a standalone product or as a plugin for Photoshop CC.

Mask AI can work as a plugin in Topaz Studio 2 but it's not fully supported. 

For some users, it may work with Lightroom or Photoshop Elements, but we don't support that integration.

How do I use the Trimap?

Please see this Quick Guide on how to use the Blue, Green, and Red Trimap in Mask AI.

How to use the Mask AI Trimap

What File Types are supported? 

What Color Profiles are supported by Mask AI?

Mask AI supports all major RBG color profiles. It does not support CMYK at this time.

What about RAW File Types?

Can I change the Default Trimap Color?

Yes, under the Mask AI preferences there is a section to change the Default Trimap Color.

How can I change from GPU to CPU?

Under the Mask AI Preferences >> Advanced Preferences 

Do you have any User Guides for Mask AI?

We have a comprehensive user guide for Mask AI: Mask AI User Guide

There are also tutorials on the Topaz Labs blog, and video tutorials to our Youtube page as well!

How do I start a trial?

First, if you are new to Topaz Labs, create an account on the Topaz Labs My Account Page. Next, simply download Mask AI from the Topaz Labs Downloads Page, log in using your account information, and select "Start Trial" to begin your free 30-day trial.

How do I save the Trimap for later use? 

You can save the Trimap you are working on to use it later. When you are ready to continue editing the mask on the image again, you bring the image back into Mask AI, then add the Trimap.

Here is a step by step on how to save the Trimap for later use:

1. Save Trimap (png or jpeg is fine)

2. Close Mask AI

3. Open the same original image file in Mask AI

4. Go to File -> Load Trimap

5. Choose the Trimap you saved previously

6. Click Compute Mask and you will be able to pick up where you left off.