Beginner Photoshop Tutorial: Removing Backgrounds Step by Step

When working with images, there are times when you want to isolate the subject by removing its background. Adobe Photoshop offers several powerful tools for this purpose. This tutorial will guide you through the process of removing backgrounds in Photoshop step by step, ensuring that you achieve a professional look, even if you’re just starting.

Step 1: Open Your Image in Photoshop

1. Launch Photoshop: Start by opening Adobe Photoshop on your computer.
2. Import Your Image: Click on File > Open, then browse your files to select the image you want to edit. Click Open to upload the image into Photoshop.

Step 2: Duplicate Your Layer

1. Duplicate the Background Layer: It’s good practice to work on a copy of your original image. In the Layers panel (located on the right), right-click the ‘Background’ layer and select Duplicate Layer…. Name it if you wish, but it’s optional. Click OK.
2. Hide the Original Layer: Click the eye icon next to the original layer to hide it for now. This way, you can refer back to it if needed.

Step 3: Select the Subject

Using the Quick Selection Tool

1. Select the Tool: In the left toolbar, find the Quick Selection Tool (or press W). It looks like a brush with a dotted circle around it.
2. Adjust Brush Size: In the options bar at the top, adjust the brush size for better control. A smaller brush helps for detailed edges, while a larger brush works for larger sections.
3. Select the Subject: Click and drag over the subject to select it. The tool will automatically detect the edges. If you accidentally select too much, hold down the Alt key (on Windows) or Option key (on Mac) to deselect areas.

Using Select Subject

1. Automatic Selection: Select the layer you just duplicated. Then go to Select > Subject. Photoshop will analyze the image and create a selection around the subject automatically.
2. Refine Selection: After the selection is made, feel free to use the Quick Selection Tool for fine-tuning.

Step 4: Refine Edges

1. Access Select and Mask: With your subject still selected, click on Select > Select and Mask… for refined edges.
2. Use the Refine Edge Brush Tool: In the Select and Mask workspace, use the Refine Edge Brush Tool (located on the left) to paint around the edges of the subject. This helps in adjusting hair or complex edges.
3. Adjust Settings: On the right, adjust settings like Smooth, Feather, and Contrast to enhance the selection. Experiment until you achieve a clean, smooth edge.

Step 5: Create a Mask

1. Add a Layer Mask: Once you’re satisfied with the selection, click the Add Layer Mask icon at the bottom of the Layers panel. This will mask the background and reveal only the selected subject.
2. Refine the Mask: If necessary, click on the mask thumbnail in the Layers panel to select it. Then use the Brush Tool (press B) with a soft brush to paint black to hide portions or white to reveal. Adjust opacity and hardness as needed for better results.

Step 6: Check and Clean Up

1. Zoom In: Use the zoom tool (Z) to check the edges closely. Look for any leftover background artifacts.
2. Eraser Tool: If you notice any stubborn bits of the background, switch to the Eraser Tool (press E) and gently erase unwanted areas on the mask.

Step 7: Replace Background (Optional)

1. Create a New Background: If you want to change the background instead of just removing it, create a new layer by clicking Layer > New > Layer… and dragging it below your subject layer in the Layers panel.
2. Fill the New Background Layer: Use the Paint Bucket Tool (G) to fill the new layer with a color or a gradient. Alternatively, import a new image as a background by dragging it into Photoshop.

Step 8: Save Your Work

1. Save as a PSD File: You may want to keep your project editable. Click File > Save As…, and choose Photoshop (.PSD) format. This keeps all layers intact for future adjustments.
2. Export for the Web: For a final image, export it by clicking File > Export > Export As…. Choose your desired format (JPEG, PNG, etc.), adjust the settings, and click Export All.

Step 9: Additional Tips for Better Background Removal

• Use High-Resolution Images: The better quality your photo, the more details Photoshop can analyze for selections.
• Learn to Use the Pen Tool: For precise selections of complex subjects (like intricate shapes), consider mastering the Pen Tool (P), which allows for manual outlining of the subject.
• Take Advantage of Shortcuts: Familiarize yourself with keyboard shortcuts to speed up your workflow, such as Ctrl + Z (Undo) and Ctrl + T (Transform).

Final Thoughts

Removing backgrounds can elevate your images and is a crucial skill for graphic design, photography, and digital art. Practice different techniques and tools in Photoshop until you find the methods that work best for your style and projects. As you gain experience, you’ll become more adept at producing clean, professional results with ease.