Remove an object from a photo

Remove an object from a photo using the Quick Mask Mode to refine the selection.

The key to removing an object from a photo is drawing a selection around it. Photoshop includes several tools to help you select an object. The tool you use depends upon the shape and color of the object and the characteristics of what surrounds it. However, some objects are difficult to select, even for experienced designers. The Quick Mask mode can help you refine a selection.

In the Layers palette, select the layer containing the object you want to remove.

Using a selection tool, select the object in the image that you want to remove. (Alternatively, you can select the area surrounding the object, and choose Select > Inverse to reverse the selection.) The selection need not be perfect. You will refine it in the next steps.

Click the Quick Mask Mode button in the toolbox. Photoshop masks or covers the nonselected areas of the image in a translucent color. While not a true mask, this mode makes it easy to see and edit the selection boundary.

Note: If Photoshop is hiding the selected areas of the image, double-click the Quick Mask Mode button. Select Masked Areas, and click OK.

If you need to refine the selection boundary, select a brush and appropriate brush size in the options bar at the top of the work area. Paint with black to add to the mask; paint with white to reveal more of the image. The brush takes on the foreground color. Use the Switch Foreground and Background Colors button to toggle the brush from black to white, depending whether you want to add or subtract from the mask.

When you're satisfied with the selection, click the Standard Mode button to once again see your selection.

Do one of the following:

• To remove the selected object, choose Edit > Cut.
• To delete the areas outside the selection, choose Select > Inverse, and then Edit > Cut.
• To copy the selected object, choose Edit > Copy.
• To move it to a new location, select the Move tool in the toolbox, and drag the object.