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Do you want to learn how to make a background transparent in Photoshop in just a few clicks? Then, you’ve come to the right place!

Whether you’re preparing property images or refining your editing skills, making the background of an image transparent is a valuable technique. 

This guide will walk you through the steps to remove the background and make it transparent using Adobe Photoshop.

Let’s start by discussing how removing the background can positively impact your images and make your subject pop.

The Importance of Background Removal in Photography

In photography, especially product photos, the background can often distract from the subject, taking away from the overall impact of your images. 

For photographers, mastering the art of background removal is essential. Using image editing tools like Photoshop, you can make backgrounds disappear completely, allowing your main subject to stand out. 

This technique is instrumental when you want to isolate the subject, making it the focal point of the image.

Removing the background can significantly enhance the visual appeal, whether you’re showcasing a shoe, a model, or even your own logo or artwork. 

With a transparent background, you have the flexibility to place your subject over different backgrounds, making it versatile for various projects. 

In essence, background removal is a powerful tool in a photographer’s toolkit, enabling you to create cleaner, more focused images that truly capture the viewer’s attention.

How to Make Background Transparent in Photoshop

With this in mind, let’s move on to the actual tutorial. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a background transparent in Photoshop using Adobe Sensei-powered tools. 

You can either watch the video tutorial or continue reading the text below:

Simplify the process of making backgrounds transparent using Adobe Photoshop’s AI Sensei.

Step 1. To get started, open the image from which you want to remove the background. Next, right-click on the background layer in the Layers panel.

Before making any changes, it’s good practice to duplicate your image layer. This allows you to preserve the original image as a backup. 

Step 2. Select Duplicate Layer to create a copy. This ensures you have an original layer intact.

Step 3. With the duplicated layer selected, go to Properties. Click on Remove Background under the Quick Action section.

Just like magic, Photoshop AI Sensei will automatically detect and remove the background from your image, leaving the subject isolated.

Step 4. If the selection isn’t perfect, use the Quick Selection Tool or Select and Mask workspace.

Step 5. To refine the edges, adjust the brush size and paint over areas that need to be added to or subtracted from the selection.

Once you’re satisfied with this selection, press Okay. You should now see a checkerboard pattern which indicates transparency.

Step 6. Lastly, Save your file.

Save Image as a PSD or PNG File to Retain Transparency

To retain the transparency, you need to save the file in a format that supports transparent backgrounds. The two most common formats are PSD (Photoshop Document) and PNG.

Saving as PSD

Click on File in the top menu and select Save As. Choose the location where you want to save the file. Select Photoshop (PSD) from the format options, and click Save.

Saving as PNG

Click on File in the top menu and select Save As. Choose the location where you want to save the file. Select PNG from the format options, and click Save.

And that’s it! 

If you want to learn how to remove the background through clipping, you can check out our guide on how to remove the background of a picture in Photoshop.

Making a background transparent in Photoshop is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your images, particularly in real estate photography. 

By following these steps, you’ll be able to create polished, professional visuals that stand out.

Have You Ever Thought To

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Have You Thought About Outsourcing Your Photo Editing?

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We hope this blog post helped you learn how to make background transparent in Photoshop. Before you go, you may also want to check out the following resources:

Stina Pettersson

Professional Blogger

Stina is an entrepreneur, digital marketer, and professional blogger who's passionate about real estate photo editing, being outdoors with her pup, and sweaty gym sessions. She loves the written word and has been writing for publications like Forbes and Thrive Global. Originally from Sweden, she's called South Florida her home since 2013.

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