: How to create an image that is just shading and transparency? In photoshop I created this image that is supposed to represent the folds of a curtain: I, however, only want the shading aspect

@Megan533

Open your Layers and Channels palettes;
Make your image a regular layer as opposed to a background layer. Easiest way is to double click the layer bar in the Layers palette;
In the Channels palette, make sure the RGB channels are visible, then click the leftmost icon on the bottom, 'Load channel as selection';
In the Layers palette, click the 'Add Layer Mask' icon (third from left, rectangle with a round hole in it);
With the Layer Mask still selected, choose Image > Adjustments > Invert, shortcut Control / Command + I;
Use Layer Styles to give the layer a black Color Overlay;
Create a coloured layer under your current layer to see the effect;
Tweak the effect using opacity, curves or other adjustments on both the actual layer and the mask;
Save as png-24. Don't forget to turn off your coloured background layer before you do.

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