Make Path from Selection

Q: Is there a way to take a selection (made from one of the selection tools) and turn it into a path? Or even just a way to define a path in the same way the magnetic lasso tool works?

A: Yes! Absolutely! It is actually quite easy. First, once you have a selection made, open the Paths palette (usually grouped behind the layers palette). Click the button that says "Make Work Path from Selection" (see picture below).Then, double click the new "work path" in the palette, and click okay. It is now a path!

Typically, paths are created with the pen tool. To use the pen tool like one of the lasso selection tools, click and hold on the pen tool in the tools palette, and choose "Freeform Pen Tool." Unfortunately, there isn't a way (at least to my limited knowledge) to use the Pen Tool in the same way the Magnetic lasso tool works. If you find out there is, please leave a comment correcting me!

To learn more about the many selection tools, including my personal favorite - the quick selection tool, click here to sign up for the free Photoshop Foundations class! It is sweet!