Idea File Fall 2024

24 | Photoshop Fun

COBBING TRANSPARENT

OBJECTS Background removal, or cutting out a background (COB), has become a lot easier in recent years with the rise of AI and computer-assisted selections... so, why not turn up the heat a little? Scan the QR code to download this image and watch a video tutorial so you can follow along.

in Photoshop ®

1. In Photoshop, select the fire/flames: a. Use the Select Object tool to outline the fire.

b. You can use this tool to refine your selection. Hold Shift while using the tool to add to the selection or hold Alt (Windows) or Option (Mac) to remove from the selection.

c. Likely, you aren’t going to get the entire shape from any auto-selection tools available, but so long as a decent portion is selected, we can refine further.

2. Create and refine a layer mask. a. Create a layer mask of the fire selection. Tip: Create a black Solid Fill layer beneath your photo layer to better see your selection. b. Use the Brush tool (shortcut is B ) to refine the edges and shape of the fire. • Be sure you have your mask selected and not your photo. • Use the brush to paint black onto the mask to conceal areas of the photo and white to reveal different areas. • In your brush settings at the top, adjust the hardness and opacity of your brush as needed. • Tip: In the Properties panel, adjust the density to help with painting the flames. c. Once you’re happy with the shape of your fire, double click the layer mask to prompt your Refine Selection menu. Adjust the Smooth , Feather , Contrast and Shift Edge sliders until your fire’s edge is soft but well defined.