The fastest way to cut out an image and import it into Procreate directly is by using the visual lookup feature on iOS: tap and hold the main subject of the photo in your camera roll until an outline appears, then drag and drop the cutout onto your Procreate canvas.
Here's a more detailed explanation of how to cut out images in Procreate, including alternative methods:
1. Using the Drag-and-Drop Method (Visual Lookup - iOS 15 and later):
This is the quickest method if you're using an iPad with iOS 15 or later.
- Open your Photos App: Navigate to the photo you want to cut out an object from.
- Tap and Hold: Press and hold on the main subject of the photo. iOS will use visual lookup to identify the subject, and an outline will appear around it.
- Drag and Drop: While still holding your finger on the subject, and without lifting it, use another finger to open Procreate. Navigate to your canvas in Procreate.
- Drop the Cutout: Drag the cutout onto your Procreate canvas and release your finger. The cutout will appear as a new layer.
- Repeat: Repeat this process for any other images you want to cut out.
- Close Photos: You can now close your Photos app.
2. Using the Selection Tool in Procreate:
This method allows for more precise cutouts within Procreate itself.
- Import the Image: Open your canvas in Procreate. Tap the wrench icon (Actions), then "Insert a photo." Select the image you want to cut out from.
- Select the Selection Tool: In the top left menu, tap the "S" icon to activate the Selection tool.
- Choose a Selection Method: Procreate offers several selection methods:
- Freehand: Draw a freehand outline around the object you want to cut out.
- Automatic: Tap on an area to automatically select similar pixels (good for objects with distinct edges).
- Rectangle/Ellipse: Draw a rectangular or elliptical selection. Not ideal for complex shapes, but useful if the object is generally that shape.
- Make the Selection: Carefully trace the outline of the object you want to cut out. If using Automatic, you may need to adjust the Threshold slider to refine the selection.
- Copy and Paste: Once selected, swipe three fingers down on the screen to bring up the copy/paste menu. Tap "Cut & Paste" to cut the selection and paste it onto a new layer. Alternatively, tap "Copy" and then create a new layer and tap "Paste".
- Refine the Edges (Optional): You can use the Eraser tool to clean up any rough edges around the cutout.
3. Using Layer Masks:
Layer masks are non-destructive, meaning you can always adjust the mask later.
- Import the Image: Open your canvas in Procreate and import the image you want to cut out from (Actions > Insert a photo).
- Create a New Layer: Create a new layer above the image layer.
- Draw the Shape: On the new layer, draw a solid shape that covers the area you want to keep from the original image. Use black as your color. If you want to erase part of the image, use white.
- Create a Clipping Mask: Tap on the layer you just drew on and select "Clipping Mask". This will mask the original image layer using the shapes in the layer above. Anything outside of the shape will be hidden.
- Adjust the Mask: Edit the content of the clipping mask layer to modify the visibility of the original image. Black areas will hide the original image, white areas will show it, and shades of gray will partially reveal the image.
Important Considerations:
- Image Resolution: Higher resolution images will generally result in better quality cutouts.
- Edge Refinement: Take your time to refine the edges of your cutouts for a professional look. Use the eraser tool or smudge tool to blend the edges.
- Purpose: Choose the method that best suits your needs. Drag-and-drop is fastest, the selection tool offers precision, and layer masks provide flexibility.
