Master the Art of Changing and Removing Backgrounds

Master the Art of Changing and Removing Backgrounds

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Using the Brush Tool to Cut Objects
   1. Creating a Custom Brush
   2. Defining the Subject's Outline
   3. Changing Brush Settings for Realistic Hair Effect
3. Using the Custom Brush to Remove Background
   1. Applying the Brush on the Layer Mask
   2. Adjusting Brush Size and Angle
4. Painting Hair Back for Realism
   1. Creating Variants with the Custom Brush
   2. Using Clone Stamp Tool for Hair Enhancement
5. Adding Whiskers and Final Touches
   1. Creating Whiskers with a Small Brush
   2. Blurring for a Soft, Natural Look
6. Conclusion

Using the Brush Tool to Cut Objects

Cutting out objects from their background in Photoshop can be a tedious task, especially when dealing with soft edges like hair. In this tutorial, we will guide You through the process of using the brush tool to achieve clean and precise cutouts. By creating a custom brush that mimics the texture of hair and strategically using it to define the subject's outline, you can remove unwanted backgrounds and achieve realistic results. Let's dive in!

Creating a Custom Brush

To start, we will Create a custom brush that resembles the desired hair texture. Open the image you want to work on and select the brush tool. Adjust the brush hardness to around 50% and size it to match the thickness of a hair strand. Experiment with the Shape dynamics settings to add variation in size and angle to the brush strokes. This will give a more natural look to the hair effect. Once you are satisfied with your brush shape, convert it to a brush preset.

Defining the Subject's Outline

With the custom brush ready, create a new layer and start painting along the edges of the subject you want to cut out. Paint the hair strands carefully, following the natural flow and direction of the hair. Use the size and angle variation in the brush to simulate the natural irregularities of hair. Don't worry about being too precise at this stage; we will refine the selection later.

Changing Brush Settings for Realistic Hair Effect

To make the hair selection look more realistic, we need to modify the brush settings further. Adjust the brush dynamics for size jitter, angle jitter, and scattering to introduce more randomness and variety in the brush strokes. This will help create a more natural-looking hair texture. Additionally, consider using a pressure-sensitive tablet for better control over brush size and opacity.

Applying the Brush on the Layer Mask

Once you are satisfied with the custom brush settings, create a white layer behind your subject. Lock the transparency of this layer and fill it with black, using the brush strokes you created earlier. This will turn your custom brush into a brush preset. Select the painted area and go to Edit > Define Brush Preset to save it as a brush. You can now use this brush to refine the edges of your subject.

Adjusting Brush Size and Angle

To refine the subject's edges, activate the layer mask of your subject and paint with black using the custom brush. Start from the outside and work your way toward the subject, gradually erasing the background. Adjust the brush size to vary the thickness of the strands and match the natural hair. Rotate the brush to follow the direction of the hair and introduce more organic elements to the selection.

Painting Hair Back for Realism

To make the cutout look more realistic, paint some hair back onto the subject. Create a new layer and sample colors from the existing hair to ensure a seamless Blend. Using the custom brush, paint strands of hair to fill in any gaps or areas that need enhancement. Vary the brush size and angle to match the thickness and direction of the hair. This step adds depth and realism to the final result.

Using Clone Stamp Tool for Hair Enhancement

For further hair enhancement, utilize the Clone Stamp Tool. Create a new brush preset using the custom brush and enable the include tool settings option. This allows you to use the custom brush with the Clone Stamp Tool. Clone strands of hair from existing areas and paint them onto areas that need improvement. This technique helps to refine the hair further and ensure a seamless transition.

Adding Whiskers and Final Touches

To complete the cutout, add whiskers or any other fine details that are Relevant to the subject. Create a new layer and use a small brush to paint whiskers or other distinctive features. Adjust the brush size and opacity to match the thickness and translucency of the whiskers. Use the eraser tool to refine and blend the whiskers for a natural look. Finally, Apply a subtle blur to the whiskers and any other hair elements to soften their appearance.

Conclusion

Using the brush tool to cut out objects with soft edges, such as hair, in Photoshop can yield impressive results. By creating a custom brush that mimics the hair texture and strategically using it to define the subject's outline, you can achieve clean and realistic cutouts. The key lies in varying the brush size and angle, adding randomness with brush dynamics, and blending the hair elements seamlessly. With practice and Attention to Detail, you can master the art of cutting out objects and creating professional-looking compositions in Photoshop.