Multiple Clipping Path Service: A Beginner’s Guide (Types, Tips, Tutorials & Pricing)

Multiple clipping path service – allows you to entice your target audience by showcasing the product’s variations in one image. Multi-clipping path is an advanced photo editing technique that uses the pen tool to isolate different elements within the same image to further edit, recolor, add shadows, or perform other retouching work. There are 8 different types of multi-clipping path services, such as basic, simple, medium, complex, applying multiple fill effects, creating multiple image layers, backdrop removal, and image manipulation.

A multi-clipping path is useful not only for representing product listings but also for enhancing overall aesthetics. It is used to create product catalogs, combine images in a composite, remove unwanted elements, and so on. Multiple clipping paths are used in different industries: e-commerce, fashion, real estate, photography, etc.

Different tools are used to clip paths, such as the pen tool, direct selection, etc. However, the cost of multiple clipping in New York, USA, ranges from $10.90 to $14 per image. So, before outsourcing multiple clipping path services from a reputed photo editing agency or individuals, check out the pricing structures, editing techniques, and so on.

What is Multiple Clipping Path?

A multiple clipping path is a photo editing technique to create additional paths within the product or shot to isolate multiple elements. Once that’s done, you can individually edit, recolor, or cut out the image. The Photoshop pen tool is used to create image clipping or deep etching. 

Instead of editing the entire image, multiple clipping paths allow you to work on specific areas or objects within the same image. For example, correcting the color of a garment item, showcasing product variations by changing colors, and so on. Multi-paths are used in e-commerce for product photography, fashion, jewelry, and others to ensure high-quality, professional-looking images for online stores. 

When to Use Multi Clipping Path?

You can use the multi-clipping path to isolate the subject and replace it with a clean background, and other usage platforms are:

  • Multiple clipping paths are useful for selecting and editing a specific region or altering an image’s shape.
  • A multi-clipping path allows you to change and adjust the appropriate colors based on your needs. 
  • You can use the multi-clipping path to adjust the opacity and add filters and effects. 
  • You can use multi-clipping paths to add multiple textures and image shadowing within the same image. 

When Not to Use Multi Clipping Path?

You can’t use a multi-clipping path that contains simple shapes, clean backgrounds, single object isolation, hair, and fuzzy edges. If your image only contains one image, you can do all of the clipping work with just one layer without using the multi-clipping path.

What are the Different Types of Multi Clipping Path Services?

There are 8 different types of multi clipping path services, depending on multiple subjects or complex elements, allowing for precise editing and manipulation of individual parts. Each category serves a specific purpose with slight differences, such as –

1. Basic Multiple Clipping Path

Basic multi-clipping paths involve isolating a single outline or minimal curves. Mainly, it is applied to several objects with straight, well-defined, or smooth edges in the interior or exterior. For example:

  • Jewelry with separate paths for the chain
  • Sunglasses or eyeglasses
  • Electronics with screens 
  • Modular desks and tables
  • Smartwatches
  • Simple objects of two or three colors

Industries that use basic multiple clipping paths: Advertising & marketing, graphic design, fashion & jewelry, e-commerce, and automotive. 

2. Simple Multiple Clipping Path

Simple multiple clipping paths are applied for objects with exteriors and interiors composed of a few straight, curved edges, multiple color variations, and basic textures. This editing is more complex than basic clippings. For example,

  • A small grouping of similar, solid-color garments, such as jackets or folded dress shirts
  • Stacks of solid color towels, sheets, or other linens in different colors
  • Groupings of dishes, mugs, or cutlery
  • Single, simple objects with more than two “holes,” such as claw hair clips or tire rims

Industries that use simple multiple clipping paths: Fashion, home appliances, jewelry & accessories.

3. Medium Multiple Clipping Path

Medium multiple clipping paths work for complex paths with holes, gaps, or layered sections. Here, Photoshop experts apply different editing techniques, such as selective shadow or highlight adjustments, compound paths for overlapping areas, and so on. Some product examples are:

  • Models wearing multiple pieces such as pants, shirts, and accessories
  • Complex, isolated garments such as fully customizable shoes or jacket/shirt/tie combinations
  • Garments with complicated clasps or ties

Industries that use medium multiple clipping paths: Furniture, jewelry, luxury fashion items like fur coats, embroidered dresses, and so on. 

4. Complex Multiple Clipping Path

Complex multiple clipping paths need to be used in conjunction with other techniques to isolate objects smoothly and perfectly. Some editing techniques are masking for transparency, the advanced pen tool to refine edges for precision, and so on. For example, 

  • Furniture with multiple cut-outs, such as chairs with a mesh backing
  • Complicated jewellery with detailed links or multiple gemstones
  • A grouping of multiple, dissimilar objects
  • A grouping of multiple people
  • Images that have more than one furry or fuzzy-edged product
  • Complex objects with multiple “holes” such as bicycles or pet crates

Industries that use complex multiple clipping paths: Automobile & machinery, apparel, luxury products, and so on.

5. Apply Multiple Fill Effect

Multiple fill effect is a photo editing technique that involves applying multiple fill colors, patterns, or textures to different product sections. It’s useful for product customization, mockups, and others. Different editing techniques are:

  • Applying different colors to separate product parts.
  • Adding textures (e.g., fabric patterns, metal shine).
  • Enhancing shadow and lighting effects to create depth.

Industries that benefited: Product prototyping (3D models or mockups), home decor & furniture, apparel & fashion, and so on.

6. Create Multiple Image Layers

This editing is useful for separating different image elements into layers, allowing advanced editing and customization for marketing or advertising needs. Different editing techniques are:

  • Creating individual layers for product parts.
  • Enabling separate adjustments for each layer.
  • Facilitating 3D rendering or animated effects.

Industries that benefited: Advertising & marketing agencies (promotional content with editable layers), gaming & animation, photography & retouching studios.

7. Backdrop Removal With Multiple Clipping Paths

This background removal technique extracts a subject from a busy background while keeping individual product parts intact. This editing technique is useful to –

  • Separate product parts for independent background removal.
  • Refine edges and shadows for a natural look.
  • Create a transparent or white background for online listings.

Industries that benefited: E-commerce & online retail, real estate & architecture, food photography, and so on.

8. Image Manipulation With Multiple Clipping Paths

Image manipulation allows for advanced modifications, like combining multiple images, reshaping objects, or enhancing product aesthetics. Other editing techniques are: 

  • Adding or removing elements from an image.
  • Creating composites by merging multiple images.
  • Reshaping or retouching parts of a product.

Industries that benefited: Advertising & creative design, fashion & beauty, product photography, and so on.

Why is Multiple Clipping Path Service Important for E-commerce Photos?

Multiple clipping paths are important for e-commerce photos because they isolate the different elements of an image in the same background, enable more control and professional image editing. According to Etsy’s buyer survey, 90% of Etsy shoppers are influenced by the quality of product images when making a purchase decision.

Here’s a detailed breakdown:

  • Precise background removal & replacement: Isolates the product from its background to create a clean, distraction-free look. It also enables seamless background replacement, making images adaptable to various platforms (Amazon, eBay, Shopify, etc.).
  • Color correction & variations: Multiple clipping paths adjust individual product parts for accurate color representation, help to showcase different color options within the same product, and ensure brand color consistency.
  • Enhanced product details & texture: Multiple clipping is useful for different promotional campaigns to create product mockups, lifestyle images, and ads.
  • Increase customer trust & engagement: Professional, high-resolution images build credibility and enhance customer confidence, leading to higher conversion rates.
  • Improves mobile & web display quality: It ensures images are optimized for different screen sizes and resolutions. Also, this editing technique helps maintain clarity, sharpness, and detail on all devices. 

How to Create Multiple Clipping Paths in Photoshop?

To create multiple clipping paths in Photoshop, you must use the Pen tool to draw paths around each subject, create a separate path for each, load them as selections, and then create clipping masks for each layer. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to creating multiple paths in Photoshop:

Step 1: Open the File in Photoshop

Open the edited image file in Photoshop – simply drag and drop the file onto Photoshop. You can create a new document by going to File -> New and choosing the desired settings. Alternatively, you can get access to the New File settings. 

Step 2: Access the Pen Tool

Access the pen tool from the left side of the Photoshop tool menu or by pressing “P” on your keyboard.

Adobe Photoshop tool menu displaying various tools, including the Pen tool.
Adobe Photoshop’s tool menu showcasing the Pen tool.

Step 3: Select the Path Option

Once you’ve selected the Pen tool, you must ensure that you select the path, not the shape.

Adobe Photoshop text tool interface showing the path option.
Adobe Photoshop displays the path option.

Step 4: Draw the First Path

Draw your first path on the canvas. To do this, simply click on the canvas where you want to place an anchor point. [Anchor points are the points that mark the end of a path segment, forming the basis for creating shapes and paths.]

Whenever you click on the canvas, you’ll create a new anchor point and a path segment connecting it to the previous one. Simply, click and drag to create curved path segments. To finish a path, either click on the first anchor point you made to close it into a shape or press “Enter or Esc” to leave it open.

Image of a vitamin C serum bottle with a text overlay about drawing paths in Photoshop using anchor points.
A vitamin C serum bottle alongside instructions for drawing paths in Photoshop by placing anchor points on the canvas.

Step 5: Open the Path Palette

When you’ve created your first path, open the Path palette to see and manage your paths. The Path palette is on the screen’s right side, along with other panels like Layers and Channels. If you don’t see it, go to Window -> Path and check it. The Path palette will show you a list of paths you’ve created earlier.

Display the Path palette alongside Layers and Channels to manage created paths.
Adobe Photoshop color palette featuring the Path palette on the right, used for managing previously created paths.

Step 6: Save the First Path

After selecting each object, you’ve to save your work path, and for this, press “CTRL+S.” If you create multiple paths, you must save each object’s work path. You can rename your path and save it.

Step 7: Create Multiple Paths

If you want to create a new work path, select the remaining objects using the pen tool. [Repeat steps 4.] You can create as many paths as you want and edit them later using other tools like the Direct Selection Tool or the Convert Point Tool.

Two vitamin cream bottles positioned together, showcasing how to create a new work path.
Isolating two vitamin cream bottles by creating a new path.

How to Merge Paths in Photoshop?

To merge paths in Photoshop, you can select the paths in the Layers panel, then use the “Merge Shape Components” option in the Path Operations flyout menu, or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+E (Windows) or Cmd+E (Mac). Here are some detailed steps:

Step 1: Select the Paths

Open the Paths panel (Window > Paths) and then select the paths you want to merge by clicking the Path Selection tool. 

To access the Path Selection tool, press Shift-A until it appears in the Tools panel. Ensure the paths are on the same layer or shape layer.

Step 2: Use the Path Operations

  • Option 1: Merge shape components: Select the paths in the Layers panel. Click the Path Operations button in the toolbar and choose “Merge Shape Components” from the layout menu.
  • Option 2: Keyboard shortcut: Select the paths in the Layers panel and press Ctrl+E (Windows) or Cmd+E (Mac).

You can follow the tutorial for more details.

How Do I Make Multiple Parallel Lines in Photoshop?

To make multiple parallel lines in Photoshop, draw a line, duplicate it using Ctrl/Cmd + Alt/Opt + T, and then use Ctrl/Cmd + Alt/Opt + Shift + T to repeat the transformation for more lines. Here are more detailed steps:

  • Select the Line Tool or Shape Tool from the Photoshop toolbar or press U on your keyboard. Simply, click and drag to draw your desired line. 
  • You can adjust the width and color of the line from the options bar at the top. 
  • Press and hold the Shift key, then drag the cursor straight up from the endpoint of the first line. This will create a second line that is parallel to the first one. The Shift key helps you keep the two lines aligned. 
  • You can release the Shift key when the two lines are drawn as you prefer and repeat this process to create more parallel lines as needed. 
  • To finish, press Enter or Return on your keyboard or click on the checkmark icon from the options bar. 

How Do I Create a Custom Path Shape in Photoshop?

Using the Pen tool, you can create a custom path shape in Photoshop. After that, define a custom shape by going to Edit > Define Custom Shape and naming it. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

  • Select the Pen tool (P) from the toolbar and ensure the mode is set to Path. Click and drag on the canvas to create a path outlining your desired shape. 
  • You can use the Direct Selection tool (A) to adjust the anchor points and curves of the path. 
  • Go to Edit > Define Custom Shape when the path operation is complete. Give your shape a name and click OK.
  • When you use your custom shape, select the Custom Shape Tool (U) from the toolbar and choose your shape from the options bar. After that, drag it on the canvas to draw your shape with any color or style. 

How Much Does Multiple Clipping Path Service Cost in New York, USA?

Multiple clipping path services can cost from $10.90 to $14 per image in New York, USA. Some services offer high-editing and custom solutions at $15+ per image. We’ve mentioned several multiple clipping path pricing factors with detailed information:

1. Multiple Clipping Path Pricing Based on Types

Different multiple clipping paths demand different pricing structures. As you know, every image is unique and requires different photo editing techniques, such as –

Basic Multi Clipping Path

Basic Multi Clipping Path costs start at $1.24 per image. A basic multi-clipping path is a photo editing technique that is used to isolate different objects, colors, or parts of an image by creating multiple clipping paths. This editing is helpful for individual adjustments like color correction, shadowing, and background removal. For example,

  • Apparel & fashion (Changing fabric colors and adjusting textures).
  • Jewelry (gemstones, metals, or other precise retouching).
  • Footwear (adjust materials like leather, rubber, and fabric).
  • Electronics, cosmetics, and so on.

Simple Multi Clipping Path

Simple multi-clipping path price starts at $2.00 per image. A simple multiple clipping path is a photo editing technique that is useful for images with minimal elements and fewer curves. It is applied to products with straightforward shapes and no intricate edges. For example,

  • T-shirts
  • Mobile Phones
  • Bottles
  • Simple handbags, and so on.

Medium Multi Clipping Path

Medium multi-clipping path price starts at $4.00 per image. Medium multiple clipping path involves products with more detailed edges, multiple parts, and less complexity in shape or transparency. Photoshop pros edit individual sections separately. For example,

  • Jewelry with a few gemstones
  • Shoes with different textures
  • Sunglasses with lenses and frames
  • Watches with dial details, and so on.

Complex Multi Clipping Path

Complex multi-clipping path pricing starts at $10.00 per image. Complex multiple clipping path is applied to products with intricate details, multiple components, and fine edges like hair, lace, or transparency. Here, photo editing experts perform advanced retouching, detailed background removal, and color correction. For example,

  • High-end jewelry with detailed gemstones
  • Hair products (wigs, extensions, etc.)
  • Food photography with layered elements
  • Group product shots with shadows and reflections.

2. Pricing Structure Calculation Per Hour, Project Fees, and Packages

Top-rated photo editing agency offers different clipping path pricing structures considering:

Hourly Paid Rate

The hourly photo editing rate depends on the agency’s pricing structure, image complexity, Photoshop skills, and others. For example, Clipping Path Studio’s multiple clipping path hourly pricing rates are as follows:

Clipping Path TypesHoursRate
Simple12 hours$2.80
24 hours$2.00
48 hours$1.60
Medium12 hours$5.60
24 hours$4
48 hours$3.20
Complex12 hours$14.00
24 hours$10.00
48 hours$8.00

Project Fees Pricing

From basic to complex, multiple clipping paths or high-end retouching rates depend on image volume, editing complexity, and companies’ pricing policies. So, consulting with your selected post-production service provider is ideal before assigning your bulk or small photo editing projects. 

Service Packages

When you outsource to a reputed photo editing company, you’ll get in-house Photoshop experts and so different photo editing service packages. For example, CPS offers 3 packages for multiple clipping path services:

  • Simple ($2.80) – 12 hours
  • Medium ($4.00) – 24 hours
  • Complex ($8.00) – 48 hours

However, you’ll get customized photo editing solutions in this pricing structure.

How Can Outsourcing Multi Clipping Path Service Online Benefit Your Business?

Professional photographers, studio coordinators, e-commerce managers, online marketers, advertising agencies, and many other professionals outsource clipping paths in New York to enhance their visual content and attract potential traffic. However, other positive impacts of outsourcing are mentioned below:

  • Pixel-Perfect Results: Tech-savvy designers have years of editing experience to handle complex multiple clipping and serve high-end and pixel-perfect solutions that fulfill your e-commerce business demands. Also, they ensure consistency in image quality across websites, catalogs, advertisements, and other marketing channels.
  • Fast Turnaround: Professional outsourcing companies work with bulk orders and have a dedicated high-end in-house photo editing team to meet your deadlines. 
  • Affordable Pricing: Outsourcing from reputed photo editing agencies like CPS, you get a competitive price rate for any post-production services. Bulk discounts for a large volume of projects, seasonal promotions, festival cut-offs, and other cost-saving deals are available all year round, which is a win-win solution for businesses of different sizes. 
  • E-commerce Optimized: You’ll get customer-oriented, high-quality images with different image formats that align with your e-commerce and other distribution channel requirements. 
  • 24/7 Support: Active 24/7 client support is a deal maker that assists clients with any queries. 
  • Hassle-Free Onboarding: You’ll use a free trial to explore your editing expertise. With CPS, you’ll go through an easy 4-step onboarding process, respecting clients’ time.

FAQ’s

Can multiple clipping paths be applied to any type of image?

Yes, multiple clipping paths can be applied to complex objects or multiple elements of images, such as jewelry, clothing with intricate details, or objects with holes.

Are there any limitations or challenges associated with using multiple clipping paths?

Yes, there are some limitations or challenges associated with using multiple clipping paths when dealing with intricate designs or large image volumes, potential errors, and so on.

Can I use multiple clipping paths to retouch e-commerce product photography?

Yes, you can use multiple clipping paths to retouch e-commerce product photography, allowing precise background removal and manipulation of individual elements within the image.

Final Overview

Here is a summary of what this article has covered so far:

  • Multi-clipping path or multi-layer clipping refers to separating individual objects within an image so that you can use those isolating elements for further edits, recoloring, and other advanced retouching.
  • There are 8 different types of multi-clipping path services, such as basic, simple, medium, complex, apply mutiple fill effect, create multiple image layers, backdrop removal, and image manipulation.
  • From professional photographers to e-commerce managers, outsource multi-clipping path services to get cost-effective editing solutions, save time, and boost sales.
  • If you have enough time, you can create multiple clipping paths using the Photoshop Pen tool or the Direct Selection tool.
  • In New York, USA, the multiple clipping path service costs from $10.90 to $14 per image. Other pricing factors are hourly paid rate, flat rate, project fees, and packages offered by photo editing agencies.

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About the Author

Joshua Malik
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Joshua Malik

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Photographer, Writer

Joshua is a photographer and editor with over 12 years of experience. He possesses strong technical skills that have enabled him to create and edit stunning content for beauty campaigns, fashion magazines, and book covers. His proficiency in photography and editing has earned him recognition in the industry.

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