The ability to create and use masks is one of the most exciting features of Ultra Fractal. Masking gives the artist even greater control over the work and subtle uses can create extraordinary effects.

    Students must have Ultra Fractal 3, 4, or 5 installed on their computer, have worked through the tutorials in the Help file, and have completed the "Working With Ultra Fractal" course. A familiarity with the UF workspace and user interface is presumed and required.

Subjects Covered:

    Lesson 1 – Transparency and Solid Color Masking

• A demonstration of basic masking techniques using the Mandelbrot shape
• Using a Mandelbrot-shaped mask with texture
• Using a Rose Range Lite solid color mask
• Using an Orbit Trap solid color mask

    Lesson 2 – Transformation Masks (Part 1)

• Exploring textures
• How transformations work
• Deluxe Clipping
• Borders and frames
• Screen-Relative mode
• Even-width borders on rectangles
• Diptych panels
• Triptych panels

    Lesson 3 – Transformation Masks (Part 2)

• Checkerboard Clipping and Ying-Yang Scissor
• Two- and three-part mappings and tesselations
• Polygonal and Intricated Rings

    Lesson 4 – Masking with gradient transparency

• Modulated iteration masks
• Trap only masks
• Limited iteration masks

    Lesson 5 – Masking with fractal structure and coloring

• Know thy gradient
• Mask shape options
• Texture, but not everywhere!
• Work flow redux

    Lesson 6 – Soft edges and subtleties

• Special merge layer masks
• Soft shape masks

    Final Thoughts

• Help with installation or technical problems with the software
• Formulas not used in this course
• Apophysis or flame fractals
• Version 4's animation capabilities
• Features and capabilities introduced in UF5. Everything in this course can be done in Version 5, but no new v5 features will be discussed.