Removing the background from an image can seem tricky, but with Photoshop’s powerful tools, the process becomes straightforward and quick. Follow these simple steps to remove the background from any image and create a clean, professional result!
Remove Background in Photoshop: A Quick Overview
This infographics gives a quick glance at the steps involved in removing the background in Photoshop. Perfect for users who need a fast, easy-to-follow guide!
Step 1: Open the Image in Photoshop
To begin editing your image in Photoshop, first launch the application on your computer. Once it’s open, navigate to the File menu located at the top left corner of the screen and select Open from the dropdown list.
A dialog box will appear, allowing you to browse through your files. Locate and select the image you want to work on, then click Open to import it into Photoshop for editing.
Step 2: Use the Quick Selection Tool
Next, select the Quick Selection Tool (W) from the toolbar on the left side of the Photoshop interface. Once the tool is active, click and drag it over the background of your image. As you move the cursor, Photoshop will intelligently detect the edges and automatically select the background area, making it easier to isolate the subject from its surroundings.
Looking for tools beyond Photoshop? Check our breakdown of background removal tools for Windows.
Step 3: Add a Mask
After selecting the background, navigate to the Layers Panel. At the bottom of the panel, click the Add Layer Mask button, which appears as a rectangle with a circle inside. This action will hide the background and reveal a transparent layer behind your subject.
Step 4: Remove the Background
After adding the mask, click on the mask thumbnail (next to your image layer). If any parts of the background are still visible, select the Brush Tool (B). Set the brush to a soft edge, and paint with black to erase any leftover background.
Step 5: Add a Solid Color Background (Optional)
If you want to replace the transparent background, click the Adjustment Layer icon at the bottom of the Layers Panel (next to the Mask button).
Choose Solid Color and pick the color you want for your new background. This adds a solid color layer behind your subject, giving the image a fresh, clean look.
Want to explore a clever trick? Try this hidden way to remove the background in Photoshop.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the shortcut to remove a background in Photoshop?
The shortcut way to remove a background depends on the subject and the background complexity. But the general procedure is to select the subject and use Ctrl/Command+J for Windows/MAC to copy to another layer. Hide the background layer, and you have the subject without a background.
What is the easiest way to remove the background?
Photoshop has an artificial intelligence option to select the subject and remove the background easily. Also, you can take a free trial to remove the background of a professional if you plan to use the service later.
Conclusion | Remove Background in Photoshop
And that’s it! You’ve just removed the background in Photoshop with just a few easy steps. Whether you’re working on product photos, portraits, or other creative projects, this method will help you create polished, professional-looking images in no time.