How to remove background from image in Photoshop

What is white background in Photoshop?

Using a white background for your product images is crucial for e-commerce. It creates consistency and makes your website look clean and organized. Remove background from image for ecommerce product photos also helps customers see your products’ true colors and features. Many online marketplaces require white backgrounds for product photos.

If your product photos weren’t shot on a white background, don’t worry. You can easily remove background from image or create white background in Photoshop. In this tutorial, we’ll show you how in a few simple steps. Mastering this skill is essential for e-commerce success because white backgrounds are a basic requirement. So, get ready to make your product images shine with a pure white background in Photoshop.

How to make a white background in Photoshop

To create a pure white background, follow these steps:

Separate the subject from the background.

Make an accurate selection of the subject.

Mask the subject.

Add a solid white background layer.

Check the process in detail –

Step 1: Duplicate the Background Layer

Launch Adobe Photoshop on your computer.

Look for the “Layer” menu at the top of the screen.

Right-click on the background layer (the original image) in the layers panel.

Choose “Duplicate Layer” from the menu that appears. This creates a copy of your original image on a new layer.

Step 2: Make a Subject Selection

In the toolbar, find the “Quick Selection Tool.” It usually looks like a paintbrush with a selection icon.

Click on the “Select Subject” option in the top menu. This will automatically try to select the main subject of your image.

You may need to fine-tune the selection:

Adjust the brush size from the top menu if it’s too big or small.

To add areas to the selection, simply click on them.

To remove areas from the selection, hold down the “Alt” key (or “Option” key on a Mac) and click on the areas you want to exclude.

Keep refining the selection until you’re satisfied.

Step 3: Refine the Selection Edges

Press “Ctrl+Alt+R” (or “Cmd+Option+R” on a Mac) to open the “Refine Edge” tool.

Inside this tool, you can fine-tune the selection:

Adjust contrast and smoothness using the provided sliders.

Once you’re happy with the selection, choose “Layer Mask” from the Output options.

Tip: Experiment with the “Refine Edge” tool by adjusting contrast and smoothness for a precise selection. When satisfied, choose “Layer Mask” for flexible editing.

Step 4: Add a Solid Color Background

Look for the “Adjustment Layer” menu.

Select “Solid Color” from the options. This will open a color selection box.

Choose the color white from the palette (#ffffff for Pure White) and click OK. This will create a new layer filled with solid white color.

Step 5: Arrange the Layers

Ensure that the “Solid Color” adjustment layer is positioned below the “Background Copy Layer.” This makes the solid white color the background of your image.

You can simply drag and drop layers in the layers panel to arrange them.

Step 6: Save Your Work

Go to the “File” menu and select “Save As” to save your edited image.

Choose the desired file format (like JPEG or PNG) and pick a location on your computer to save your work.

Give your file a name and click “Save.“

Why is a white background essential for e-commerce product photos?

A white background is often considered essential for e-commerce product photos for several reasons:

Focus on the Product

A white background in e-commerce product photos helps eliminate distractions, ensuring that the main subject of the photo—the product itself—takes center stage. It allows customers to clearly see the details, features, and colors of the product without any clutter.

Consistency

E-commerce websites typically display multiple products on the same page, and using a uniform white background for all e-commerce product photos creates a consistent and professional look. This consistency makes it easier for customers to browse and compare products.

Branding

A white background can be a part of a brand’s identity and visual style. Many successful e-commerce businesses use white backgrounds as part of their branding, creating a recognizable and cohesive visual experience for customers.

Versatility

E-commerce product photos with white backgrounds are versatile and can be easily integrated into various marketing materials, such as catalogs, advertisements, and social media posts. They can also be used in different contexts without clashing with other design elements.

Compliance

Some online marketplaces and e-commerce platforms have specific image requirements, and a white background may be mandatory or strongly recommended. Adhering to these requirements ensures that your product listings are compliant and won’t be rejected or penalized.

Improved Lighting

White backgrounds reflect light, which can help evenly illuminate the product and reduce shadows. This is particularly important for achieving high-quality, well-lit product images.

Customer Expectations

Many customers have come to expect product photos with white backgrounds when shopping online. This familiarity can make customers feel more comfortable and confident in their purchasing decisions.

Professionalism

White backgrounds are associated with professionalism and attention to detail. High-quality product images with white backgrounds can convey a sense of trustworthiness and credibility to potential buyers.

Conclusion

In summary, using a white background for e-commerce product images is crucial for consistency, cleanliness, and meeting marketplace requirements. If your product photos weren’t shot on a white background, don’t worry. You can easily remove background from image or create white background in Photoshop. Mastering this skill is vital for e-commerce success, enhancing the professionalism and appeal of your product images. Make your product images shine with a pure white background in Photoshop.