How To Remove a Difficult Background in Photoshop (Tutorial)
Howto & Style
Introduction
Removing complex backgrounds from images can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and techniques in Photoshop, it becomes manageable. In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step process to effectively remove a difficult background by using Photoshop’s features like the Threshold adjustment, Color Range selection, and the Polygonal Lasso tool.
Step 1: Unlock the Background Layer
The first step is to unlock the background layer. To do this, simply left-click on the lock icon next to the layer in the Layers panel. This action will allow you to edit this layer.
Step 2: Apply the Threshold Adjustment
Now that your layer is unlocked, navigate to the Adjustments panel. Look for the Threshold adjustment and apply it. This will help in differentiating the subject from the background by converting the image to black and white.
- Move the slider to the left or right until the areas you want to keep become as dark as possible. For this example, a threshold level of around 144 is effective, as it covers most of the tree and leaves.
Once you have set your threshold adjustment, you can minimize the adjustment layer.
Step 3: Duplicate and Convert to a Smart Object
Next, select the Threshold layer you just adjusted. Hold down the Shift key and click on your background layer to select both. Then, press Ctrl + J (or Command + J on Mac) to duplicate these layers.
Right-click on the duplicated layer and select Convert to Smart Object. This smart object serves as a reference for your selections.
Step 4: Use Color Range to Select Areas
Go to the Select menu and click on Color Range. This tool enables you to separate the black areas (where the tree and leaves are) from the white background.
- Click on the white area of the image to select it.
- Adjust the Fuzziness slider to around 200 for better results.
- Click OK to create the selection.
Sometimes, this selection may include unwanted areas (like the field).
Step 5: Refine Your Selection with the Polygonal Lasso Tool
To refine your selection, use the Polygonal Lasso Tool (third tool down in the toolbar). Make sure to select the mode that allows you to both add to and subtract from your selection:
- Hide the reference layer and the threshold layer.
- While holding the Alt key, click to subtract the unwanted areas of the selection.
- Continue tracing the edge before returning to connect your selection to the starting point.
Press Ctrl + Click (or Command + Click on Mac) to close the selection.
Step 6: Mask the Background
After refining the selection, ensure you are selected on the main image layer. Click on the Mask button located at the bottom of the Layers panel. Initially, the output may seem strange or not as expected, so invert the mask selection by pressing Ctrl + I (or Command + I on Mac).
Congratulations! You have successfully removed the background from your image using Photoshop.
Keyword
- Photoshop
- Remove Background
- Threshold Adjustment
- Color Range
- Polygonal Lasso Tool
- Smart Object
- Image Editing
FAQ
What is the Threshold adjustment used for in Photoshop?
The Threshold adjustment is used to convert an image to black and white by defining a cutoff value for pixel brightness. This helps separate foreground elements from the background.
How can I refine my selection after using Color Range?
You can use the Polygonal Lasso Tool to add or subtract from your selection, ensuring that only the desired parts of the image are included.
What does converting a layer to a Smart Object do?
Converting a layer to a Smart Object allows you to apply non-destructive edits, meaning you can modify the content or effects at any time without permanently changing the original layer.
Why should I invert my mask selection?
Inverting the mask selection flips the visibility of the selected areas, allowing you to show what you want to keep (the foreground) and hide what you want to remove (the background).
Can this method be used for any type of image?
Yes, this method can be applied to various images; however, its effectiveness can vary depending on the complexity of the background and the contrast between the subject and background.
