Vector shape layers with raster layer masks

[Doug_Katz@adobeforums.com]

Elsewhere on the forum, it was reported that a layer mask (linked or unlinked)
on a shape layer will NOT transform with the shape. For example, when rotating or
resizing the vector shape with the Free Transform handles, the layer mask pixels will
not correspondingly rotate or resize... they remain unaffected by the transformation.

But this isn't true, is it? It's ONLY true if the shape's PATH IS SELECTED. If I deselect
the path (by clicking on its VECTOR mask) but keep the shape layer active, then
transform, the shape and mask will both respond to the adjustment, right?

(Just making sure I'm understanding what I've just discovered in an image I'm working
on. Thanks.)

[JasonSmith@adobeforums.com]

Which treads were you referring to?

[Doug_Katz@adobeforums.com]

Oh lord, I'll never find them now! they may have gone all the way back to PS7!
I just remember very distinctly one (maybe even two) posts claiming that under
the conditions I descirbe above, the raster mask won't transform. And it WON'T
if the shape's path is selected. My little discovery is, it WILL if the layer remains
active but the path is deselected. That's all. No biggie (except for me).

[John_Slate@adobeforums.com]

I'm not sure how a layer mask could NOT transform, it's a grayscale raster.

You couldn't end up with pixels on an angle, or at a different rez than the file.

[Ed_Hannigan@adobeforums.com]

I vaguely remember this. It makes sense. If the path is selected Transform becomes Transform Path, as if you did Command-T on an active path, right?

Similarly you cannot use Command-T on a raster selection if the Pen or other vector tool is selected. Trips me up all the time. Use the pen to outline something, turn it into a selection and Command-T to affect those pixels and...nothing!

[Doug_Katz@adobeforums.com]

Exactly right, Ed. I discovered this when I had a raster layer mask on a shape
layer (the shape was the custom "paper clip" that ships with PSCS and the
layer mask was hiding the portion of the clip that was supposed to fall behind
a fabricated "polaroid snapshot"). Anyway, the clip was vertical, and I needed
to rotate it to a horizontal position. Couldn't for the life of me figure out why
Free Transform was rotating the clip (path of the shape layer) but not the layer
mask until I realized I had the path selected (i.e., active). Once I deselected it, both
shape and mask responded to Free Transform.