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 a staple of 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. Ideal for 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 (hundreds of points) 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 still standardise on clipping paths, but web implementations often 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.