How To Remove Complex Background in Photoshop | Photoshop Tutorials

Introduction

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to effectively remove complex backgrounds in Adobe Photoshop. Whether you're trying to isolate a subject from a busy environment or change the background entirely, this guide will walk you through the essential techniques and tools needed for clean and professional results.

Step 1: Open Your Image in Photoshop

• Launch Adobe Photoshop.
• Go to File > Open and select the image with the complex background you want to remove.

Step 2: Duplicate the Background Layer

• In the Layers panel, right-click on the background layer and select Duplicate Layer.
• Name the new layer for clarity (e.g., "Working Layer") and click OK.

Step 3: Use the Quick Selection Tool

• Select the Quick Selection Tool from the toolbar (or press W).
• Click and drag over the subject you want to keep, allowing Photoshop to automatically detect edges.
• Adjust the selection as needed by holding the Alt (Windows) or Option (Mac) key to subtract from the selection.

Step 4: Refine the Selection

• With the selection active, go to the top menu and select Select > Select and Mask.
• Use the Refine Edge Brush Tool to paint over areas where the edges are complex, like hair or fur.
• Adjust the settings on the right panel, such as Smooth, Feather, and Contrast, to get a cleaner selection.

Step 5: Create a Layer Mask

• Once you're satisfied with the selection, click OK to exit the Select and Mask workspace.
• With the subject still selected, click on the Add Layer Mask button at the bottom of the Layers panel. This will remove the background and leave only the selected subject.

Step 6: Clean Up Edges

• If there are any leftover background elements, select the layer mask thumbnail in the Layers panel.
• Use the Brush Tool (press B) with a soft brush to paint with black over the areas you want to hide or with white to reveal parts of the image.
• Adjust the brush size and hardness as needed for precision.

Step 7: Add a New Background

• To change the background, create a new layer below the subject layer.
• Use File > Place Embedded to insert a new background image.
• Resize and position the new background as necessary using the Transform Tool (Ctrl + T or Command + T).

Step 8: Final Adjustments

• Make any final adjustments to the subject and background layers, such as color correction or blending.
• Use adjustment layers like Brightness/Contrast or Hue/Saturation to ensure the subject and background match in lighting and color.

Conclusion

You've now learned how to remove complex backgrounds in Photoshop and replace them with new ones. Practice these steps to master the technique, and don't hesitate to experiment with different images and backgrounds. As you continue to refine your skills, consider exploring additional features in Photoshop to enhance your editing capabilities. Happy editing!