Photoshop question concerning Mask Layers

[bronzhawk]

Ok, this may seem like a stupid question but I don't know how to do it. How do I paste something into a mask layer (or any layer for that matter)? When ever I try to paste something into photoshop it makes a new layer, but I want to paste it into an existing layer, specifically the mask layer. Thank you in advance for whomever responds.

[Spartan_24]

In photoshop you can't bring a picture into an existing mask layer. Everytime you bring a new picture it will always create a new layer.

[chuunin_hitokiri]

He's right. If you want the new image to be in the same layer, you have to flatten the image (Layer-> Flatten Image).

This will flatten all your layers into one, so make sure everything is where you want it before you do this. If it's something you don't want to have to redo, I'd also recomend saving a PSD of your work before you do this, in case you find something you want to change later.

[phazer89]

Yes, you can't paste something onto a Layer Mask... You can only do things like brush on it, or add a gradient etc...