Feather and Blur Image Edges in Photoshop with Select and Mask
In this quick tutorial, you’ll soften the edges of an image selection using Photoshop’s Select and Mask workspace. You’ll adjust Global Refinements like Feather, Contrast, and Shift Edge, then output the result to a Layer Mask for a non-destructive blur effect. By the end, you’ll have a smooth, feathered transition around your subject or selected area.
Step-by-step instructions
Open and unlock your image layer
Drag and drop your image into Photoshop to open it.
Open Window → Layers to show the Layers panel.
Double-click the Background layer and click OK to convert it to a normal, editable layer.
Create a selection to feather
Select the Rectangular Marquee Tool (M).
Click and drag to draw a selection around the area you want to keep visible.
Refine edges in Select and Mask
Go to Select → Select and Mask (or click Select and Mask on the options/toolbar).
In Global Refinements, increase Feather to blur the edge.
Optionally tweak Contrast and Shift Edge to harden/soften and offset the edge.
Optionally adjust Radius; leave Smooth at default if you prefer.
Output to a layer mask
In Output Settings → Output To, choose Layer Mask.
Click OK to apply. Your selection will gain a soft, blurry edge via the mask.
Toggle the mask visibility to compare before/after if needed.
