How to Remove a Background in Photoshop

Remove image backgrounds instantly using Photoshop. Master the Select Subject and Remove Background tools for precise, professional results.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.