Clipping Path
A closed vector path that defines the visible area of an image, hiding everything outside. Used in print production and web CSS for precise cutouts.
A clipping path is a closed vector path that defines the visible region of an image, rendering everything outside the path transparent. It has been used in print production for decades, embedded in EPS and PSD files to isolate product photos from their backgrounds.
Key characteristics and limitations:
- Crisp edges: Defined by vectors, so edges remain sharp at any scale. Suited to logos and product silhouettes
- Binary clipping: Inside the path is fully visible, outside is fully hidden. No semi-transparent gradient boundaries are possible
- Anchor point limits: Overly complex paths can cause RIP (Raster Image Processor) errors in print workflows
In web development, CSS clip-path provides equivalent functionality:
clip-path: circle(50%)- Circular clippingclip-path: polygon(50% 0%, 100% 100%, 0% 100%)- Triangular clippingclip-path: url(#svgClip)- References an SVG<clipPath>element
Choosing between clipping paths and masks: use clipping paths for hard, precise edges; use masks when soft edges or semi-transparent boundaries are needed. Print workflows use clipping paths, while web implementations may favour masks for their greater expressiveness.
In SVG, define paths inside a <clipPath> element and apply via clip-path="url(#id)". Combined with CSS transitions, this enables animated clipping effects that respond to user interaction without JavaScript computation.