I'm looking for a input tool (cordless mouse?) to make use of the lasso function on photoshop elements.?

Question

I know that getting a stylus is probably the best way to outline digital photos to make use of the 'lasso' function with photoshop elements, but not having the right computer, what else could I use? I've seen these cordless mouses that have the transmitter built inside. Would they make an accurate 'track' or is there something better to use? Also what techniques would help to accurately select the part of the photo you want to mask or highlight?

Answer 1

I whole heartily agree about the stylus. It last a long time and worth the investment (even th smallest tablet). You say you don't have the right computer, but just about every computer make in the last 5 years has a USB port and that should be good enough (even the first version USB 1.1)

As for photoshop technique, you should learn about quick mask. On the tools pallet on the left, at the bottom you will see 2 square with a circle each inside of them. One of them is to bring you into QUICK MASK and another is to take you OUT of QUICK MASK. You can always use letter Q to trigger (enter and exit quick mask).

In the quick mask mode, you basically use paint brush to make selections. In another words if you were to have made a round selection, and then enter quick mask, you will see a round transparent red circle. Except the selection and the MASK is opposites of each other. You can get more information about quick mask here (search down for QUICKMASK or QUICK MASK).

http://wikivid.com/index.php/Photoshop

Anyway the reason quick mask is important is that you make selections using a brush or take away selection like you are just using a eraser.

Even so go for a Tablet. I got mine for 50% off ($50) on sale.

Good Luck.

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Answer 2

Like you said a stylus (wacom tablet and stylus) is the best tool, but you can always use a cordless optical mouse. It'll take practice, but it'll serve. Also, the magic wand function can select the part you want to work with, just set the tolerance level to the right degree, ex: on a scale of 0 to 100, a tolerance of 10 is highly restrictive whereas a tolerance of 70 is very inclusive.

just play around.

Answer 3

A cordless optical mouse is all you really need to create clipping paths in images. The pen tool is the most accurate way to make a path. Once the pen tool is mastered, creating even an intricate path is fast and super easy. I've noticed that using lasso or wands is not nearly as precise. Save your money and take advantage of everything the software has to offer! Let me know if you need more info...