How To Remove a Background In Photoshop [For Beginners!]
Introduction
In this tutorial, we will explore how to remove backgrounds in Photoshop, focusing on techniques that are suitable for beginners. The goal here is to provide a comprehensive, step-by-step guide that you can easily follow along with. If you’d like to practice using the same photo that I’ll demonstrate in this tutorial, you can find a link to download it on my website in the description below.
Opening the Image
The first step is to open your desired image in Photoshop. For this tutorial, we’ll be using a photo of a woman running through a bridge, which we’ll use to demonstrate background removal.
Selecting and Masking
Photoshop offers several methods to remove backgrounds, but for this tutorial, we’ll focus on a particular technique ideal for most cases. Once your image is open, navigate to Select > Select and Mask. This will open a dedicated workspace that allows you to make precise selections and adjustments.
Understanding the Workspace
Upon entering the Select and Mask workspace, you will see a toolbar on the left, similar to the regular Photoshop interface, a set of option settings above the toolbar, and adjustable properties on the right side. The default view mode is set to Onion Skin, allowing you to see selected pixels against the original image.
Making Selections
You can create your initial selection using the Quick Selection Tool located in the toolbar. Click and drag over the area you want Photoshop to select; it will follow your movements and identify edges. If you accidentally select unwanted areas, hold the Alt key (or Option on Mac) while dragging to deselect.
For newer versions of Photoshop (2021 and later), you can also use the Select Subject button, which utilizes Adobe Sensei AI to automatically identify and select the main subject in the photo.
Fine-Tuning Your Selection
Upon making your selection, you may find that fine-tuning is necessary. Use the Zoom Tool to examine any missed areas. You can add to your selection using the Quick Selection Tool or the Brush Tool.
Adjusting Mask Edges
With your selection fine-tuned, the next step is to refine the mask edges. You can adjust parameters like Smooth, Feather, Contrast, and Shift Edge in the global refinement settings to make your selection look cleaner and more realistic.
Separating Hair Selections
While editing the mask edges for the body is critical, you might achieve better results by treating hair selections separately. After outputting your initial mask, you can return to the Select and Mask workspace and focus specifically on refining the hair using the Refine Edge Brush.
Finalizing the Background Removal
Once you are satisfied with your adjustments, make sure to click OK to apply the mask. You can then create a new solid color layer for the background, moving it beneath the masked subject layer to provide a new background.
Touch-Up Adjustments
You may notice some remaining imperfections in the mask. If so, you can use the Brush Tool on the layer mask to paint in white (to reveal) or black (to conceal) parts of the image as necessary. The X key on your keyboard is a handy shortcut to toggle between the brush colors quickly.
Additional Tools
Photoshop also has a Remove Background Button found in the Properties Panel. This can quickly apply a layer mask with a single click but may still require refinement similar to more traditional methods.
Adding a New Background
To place a new image as a background, go to File > Place Embedded and select your desired background layer. Once completed, make sure the new background layer is below the masked layer.
For advanced users, it’s important to note that you may need to implement adjustments like shadowing, highlight matching, and additional color corrections for a seamless composite.
If you want to dive deeper into advanced techniques, be sure to check out my other tutorials on enhancing your background replacement skills.
Thank you for joining me in this tutorial! If you found any aspect useful, please consider liking the video and leaving your thoughts in the comments. If you're new here, don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss out on any future Photoshop training videos.
Keyword
- Photoshop
- Background removal
- Select and Mask
- Quick Selection Tool
- Refine Edge Brush
- Layer Mask
- AI
- Image Editing
- Advanced Techniques
FAQ
1. What is the best way to remove a background in Photoshop?
The best way is to use the Select and Mask workspace, utilizing tools like the Quick Selection Tool or the Select Subject button to create precise selections, followed by refining those selections for a clean mask.
2. Can I use Photoshop's AI to help with selection?
Yes, if you’re using newer versions like Photoshop 2021, you can leverage Adobe Sensei's AI through the Select Subject feature to automatically identify and select the main subject in your image.
3. What is a layer mask?
A layer mask is a non-destructive way to hide parts of a layer in your image. You can reveal and conceal pixels without permanently erasing them, allowing you to make adjustments later.
4. How do I refine edges after making a selection?
In the Select and Mask workspace, use the global refinement sliders (Smooth, Feather, Contrast, and Shift Edge) to improve the appearance of your mask edges.
5. What should I do if I see imperfections after removing the background?
You can use the Brush Tool on the layer mask to paint in white (to reveal) or black (to conceal) areas that need adjustments. This allows for more precise control over your final image.
