Master the New Background Removal Feature in Photoshop CC 2022

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Object Selection Tool
3. New Options in the 2022 Update
4. Toggling the Selection Feature
5. Refreshing the Selection
6. Show All Objects
7. Gear Icon Options
8. Modifying the Selection
9. Select and Mask
10. Refining the Edges with the Refine Edge Brush Tool
11. Using the Lasso Tool to Fix Problem Areas
12. Cleaning Up Soft Edges with the Brush Tool
13. Finalizing the Background Removal
14. Conclusion

Removing a Background in Photoshop 2022: A Step-by-Step Guide

Photoshop 2022 has introduced a new and improved Object Selection Tool, making it even easier to remove backgrounds from images. In this tutorial, we will walk You through the process of using this tool and explore the additional options available in the latest update.

1. Introduction

Removing backgrounds in Photoshop is a common task, whether you want to isolate a person or object or Create composites. The Object Selection Tool is a powerful feature that uses Adobe Sensei, an AI technology, to automatically detect and select the desired element in an image.

2. The Object Selection Tool

To access the Object Selection Tool, click on the fourth tool in the toolbar. Right-click in the workspace and select "Object Selection Tool." This tool is designed to make the background removal process more intuitive and efficient.

3. New Options in the 2022 Update

With the 2022 update, the Object Selection Tool has been enhanced with additional options. These options can be found at the top of the workspace and provide more control over the selection process.

4. Toggling the Selection Feature

The first option allows you to toggle the selection feature on and off. When enabled, hovering over the image will highlight the areas that the tool will select. This visual feedback helps you determine whether the selection is accurate.

5. Refreshing the Selection

Sometimes, the automatic selection may not be perfect. The refresh option allows you to update and refine the selection if it didn't highlight correctly. This ensures that you have the most precise selection possible.

6. Show All Objects

If your image contains multiple people or objects that you want to select, the Show All Objects option will automatically detect and select them. This saves you time and effort by avoiding the need to manually select each element.

7. Gear Icon Options

The gear icon provides access to additional options for the Object Selection Tool. Here, you can choose between Auto-Refresh and Manual Refresh modes. Auto-Refresh automatically detects the selection as soon as you open the tool, while Manual Refresh gives you more control. You can also customize overlay options such as color and opacity.

8. Modifying the Selection

While the Object Selection Tool aims to provide accurate selections, there may be areas where it includes or excludes unwanted elements. To modify the selection, switch to Add Mode at the top. Hold down the ALT or OPTION key and left-click to subtract specific areas from the selection. This allows you to precisely refine the selection and obtain the desired result.

9. Select and Mask

Once you have made the initial selection, click on the "Select and Mask" button. This will open a window where you can further refine and improve the edges of the selected element. This step is crucial for achieving seamless and professional-looking results.

10. Refining the Edges with the Refine Edge Brush Tool

In the Select and Mask window, use the Refine Edge Brush Tool to refine the edges of your selection. Set the tool to an appropriate size, hardness, and opacity. This tool is especially useful for separating complex shapes, such as hair, from the background. By carefully painting over the edges, you can achieve a cleaner and more polished result.

11. Using the Lasso Tool to Fix Problem Areas

In some cases, there may be areas where the Object Selection Tool struggles to differentiate between the background and the subject. To fix such problem areas, switch to the Lasso Tool and create a selection around the areas that need adjustment. Hold down the ALT or OPTION key and left-click to subtract those areas from the selection. This ensures that only the desired elements are included in the final result.

12. Cleaning Up Soft Edges with the Brush Tool

If you encounter soft edges that need further refinement, use the Brush Tool to clean them up. Adjust the brush size and hardness as needed, and carefully paint over the soft edges to make them more defined and solid.

13. Finalizing the Background Removal

Once you are satisfied with the selection and the refinement of the edges, scroll down to the "Output To" section in the Select and Mask window. Choose "New Layer With Layer Mask" to create a new layer with a mask Based on your selection. This allows you to easily manipulate the subject without affecting the background.

14. Conclusion

Removing backgrounds in Photoshop 2022 has become even simpler with the new Object Selection Tool and its enhanced features. With the ability to toggle the selection feature, refresh the selection, and customize options, you have more control over the background removal process. By using the Refine Edge Brush Tool and the Lasso Tool, you can further refine your selection and achieve professional-looking results. So give it a try and elevate your image editing skills with this powerful tool.

Highlights

• Photoshop 2022 introduces an enhanced Object Selection Tool for easy background removal.
• The new options in the 2022 update provide more control and customization.
• Use the Add Mode and the ALT/OPTION key to refine the selection and remove unwanted areas.
• The Select and Mask feature allows for further refinement of edges and fine details.
• The Brush Tool and Lasso Tool can be used to fix problem areas and clean up soft edges.

FAQ

Q: Can the Object Selection Tool accurately detect and select complex shapes, such as hair? A: Yes, the Object Selection Tool uses advanced AI technology to detect and select intricate details, including hair strands.

Q: Can I make adjustments to the selection after using the Object Selection Tool? A: Absolutely! You can refine and modify the selection using the Add Mode, ALT/OPTION key, and additional tools like the Refine Edge Brush Tool and the Lasso Tool.

Q: Does the 2022 update improve the overall performance of the Object Selection Tool? A: While the update introduces new options for customization, the performance of the tool largely depends on the complexity of the image and the accuracy of the initial selection.

Q: Can I undo or edit the background removal process after it's been finalized? A: Yes, the selection and mask created during the process can be toggled on or off, allowing you to make further adjustments or revert to the original image if needed.