How to Make Image Background Transparent in Photoshop?

To make an image background transparent in Photoshop, use the Quick Actions panel. First, hide the background layer. Then, remove the background.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Steps to Remove Background and Achieve Transparency:

1. Open Your Image in Photoshop: Launch Photoshop and open the image you want to edit (File > Open).

2. Locate the Layers Panel: The Layers panel is usually on the right side of your screen. If you don't see it, go to Window > Layers.

3. Hide the Background Layer (Optional, but helpful for visual confirmation): Click the eye icon next to the background layer to hide it. This will reveal a checkerboard pattern where the transparent areas are. If the layer isn't a background layer, you can skip this step, or create a new transparent layer behind it to check your progress later on. To create a new layer, navigate to Layer > New > Layer.

4. Remove the Background using Quick Actions:

   • If you have the Properties panel open: (If not, go to Window > Properties), you might find a "Quick Actions" section with a "Remove Background" button. Click this button. Photoshop will attempt to automatically remove the background.

   • Alternative method if you do not have the Quick Actions panel:

     • Select the Subject: Go to Select > Subject. Photoshop will try to automatically select the main subject of your image.
     • Inverse the Selection: Go to Select > Inverse. This will select everything except the subject, effectively selecting the background.
     • Delete the Background: Press the Delete key (or Backspace on some keyboards). This will delete the selected background, making it transparent.

5. Save Your Image as a PNG: To preserve the transparency, save your image as a PNG file (File > Save As...). Choose "PNG" from the "Format" dropdown menu. JPEG files do not support transparency and will fill the transparent area with white.

Tips and Considerations:

• Image Complexity: The accuracy of automatic background removal depends on the image's complexity. Images with clear separation between the subject and background will yield better results.
• Refining the Selection: After using "Remove Background" or "Select Subject," you might need to refine the selection using tools like the Lasso Tool, Quick Selection Tool, or Select and Mask workspace to achieve perfect results. The Select and Mask workspace can be accessed via Select > Select and Mask...
• Layers: Working with layers is crucial in Photoshop. Ensure you are working on the correct layer to avoid unintended edits.
• Using the Background Eraser Tool: For more complex backgrounds, the background eraser tool can be very helpful. It allows you to "paint" the background away in more detail. Be sure to adjust the tool settings (size, tolerance, etc.) according to your specific needs.

By following these steps, you can effectively make the background of your images transparent in Photoshop.