How to Remove a Background in Photoshop

Step by step

1. 30 sec

   Unlock the background layer

   Open your image in Photoshop. Locate the Layers panel and click the small lock icon on the Background layer to convert it into a standard editable layer.

   Note: Converting the background to a layer is mandatory for non-destructive masking.
2. 1 min

   Activate the Remove Background tool

   Ensure the layer is selected in the Layers panel. Open the Properties panel by navigating to Window > Properties, then click the Remove Background button located under the Quick Actions section.

   Note: Photoshop uses AI to analyze the subject and automatically generates a layer mask.
3. 1 min

   Enter Select and Mask workspace

   If edges appear jagged or transparent, click the Select and Mask button within the Properties panel. Use the Refine Edge Brush tool to paint over hair or fine details to recover lost texture.

   Note: Set the View mode to On Black to clearly identify missed areas.
4. 30 sec

   Refine selection output

   Adjust the Global Refinements settings such as Smooth and Contrast to clean up the edges of your selection. Under the Output Settings dropdown, select New Layer with Layer Mask to preserve the original image data.

   Note: A lower Smooth value maintains sharp edges while a higher one rounds off corner pixel artifacts.
5. 30 sec

   Apply the mask

   Click OK to commit the changes. Your subject now exists on a transparent layer, allowing you to place any background beneath it in the layer stack.

   Note: Verify the result by creating a solid color fill layer behind your subject.