For TIFF or PSD assets that contain clipping paths, when they're downloaded individually or shared in a batch via the Selection panel in PNG format, they can have transparent backgrounds. Other file formats of the original asset that contain paths are not supported.

If a clipping path has been added, the saved path will be used to remove the background. If a clipping path hasn't been added, the asset will be flattened and a white background will be present.

If PNG files with transparent backgrounds are uploaded, the transparent background will remain. A white background will not be added.

Clipping paths

We recommend that you download text graphics and logos or send them to someone else with or without the background be created in Illustrator for best overall quality and scalability. If you don't have access to Illustrator, text graphics and logos can be created in Photoshop; however, you must create valid clipping paths for those files. Note that files created in Photoshop will be rasterized and as images are enlarged, quality will be lost.

Alternate previews will display for PSD files with active clipping paths that are uploaded to the DAM.

Photoshop files that are uploaded with active clipping paths and downloaded in the original format will retain the clipping path when files are placed in Illustrator or InDesign. Photoshop files that are uploaded with active clipping paths and downloaded as JPGs will not retain the clipping path when placed in Illustrator.

Compressed JPGs with active clipping paths downloaded in the original format will retain the clipping path, which can be accessed in Photoshop. The clipping path will display when the JPG is placed in InDesign. Clipping paths will not display nor can they be accessed when the JPG is placed in Illustrator.

Create clipping paths

To create valid clipping paths in Photoshop:

1. Create a new document.
2. Click the Layer menu.
3. Click Type.
4. Click Create Work Path.
5. Click the Paths palette.
6. Click Save Path.
7. Click the Paths palette.
8. Click Create Clipping Path.
9. Assign a flatness of .5 device pixels.
10. Save the file in TIFF or PSD format.

Layer masks are not supported, because they will not allow you to download or share assets with their background removed.

To ensure the file is set up correctly, you can follow the steps above and email a sample file to DAM Customer Support.

What works best for PNG files with clipping paths?