Not all image masking projects are the same, so the rates for each project vary.
Pricing is based on the total number of sections that need masking, the difference between the object and its background, and the background color (because it’s more complicated to separate objects that are similar in color to the background).
Every image is different, but we follow standard pricing guidelines to make sure your rate is always clear and objective, even if you’re working with a different designer. Here’s an overview of the different categories of image masking projects:
Basic image masking projects – $1.19 per image
The simplest images fall into this category. These images have simple, smooth edges around most of the object, with a small portion of the image containing fur, hair, or transparency.
Great for:
- Eyeglasses
- Handbags, clutches, and jewelry with tassels
- Clothing with a fringed hem
- Transparent or translucent empty containers
- Glassware
Simple image masking projects – $1.69 per image
Most images fall into this category — almost 50% of image masking orders at Path. These images are a little more involved than “basic” images because more of the object’s area has furry or fuzzy edges, or the object has complex, smooth edges.
Great for:
- One person with a head of hair in a photo
- Fur-lined boots
- Jewelry with intricate settings
- Translucent gemstones
- Topiaries and simple floral arrangements in opaque vases
- A single stuffed animal with mostly smooth borders, but some furry edges
Medium complexity image masking projects – $2.39 per image
This is the second most common category for image masking projects. These images may have fur or hair covering the entire subject, or contain varying levels of transparency throughout the object’s edges or area.
Great for:
- Two people in a photo
- A stuffed animal
- A sweater with fuzzy or furry edges
- A wedding veil
- A furry animal, such as a dog, cat, or hamster
- A garment with tulle sleeves or skirt
- Sheer curtains and drapes
- Sheer or lacy lingerie
Complex image masking projects – $4.99 per image
Images in this category might have multiple people (or animals) in a single photo. Sometimes images with shadows or multiple background colors fit in this category too, because they require a combination of image masking techniques
Great for:
- Two or more animals in a single photo
- More than two people in a photo
- A complicated surface with lots of holes, like a soccer net
Super complex image masking projects – $8.99 per image
A very small number of image masking projects fall into the super complex category. These images have highly intricate borders and require a variety of image masking techniques.
Great for:
- Feathers
- Large groups of people
- Pine needles or wreaths
- Transparent or translucent objects shot against a multi-colored background
