How To Extract Someone From a Background In Photoshop

This was shot against a white wall.

This is the same image extracted onto a background plate.

Hi, Today I am going to show you how to extract someone from a background in Photoshop. In today’s photography you might find yourself exploring various compositing techniques in order to place subjects on different backgrounds. HDR plates like the ones Joel Grimes uses can create some seriously dramatic imagery, however you must not only be able to light your subject correctly, you must be able to extract them from a studio background.

In the videos below I show you everything you need to know in order to extract a subject from a background. I will say this, it’s impossible to extract a subject from a background if they are low contrast compared to the background. An example would be if you shoot a blond-haired person against a blown out sky, forget it, you will not be able to extract them, so do not even waste your time.

Spend a some time watching the videos. I made two versions, one for those on a short break and need to see the process done quickly, it’s called The Short Version. Also there is an, “Extended Version”, where I show many more tips and tricks, that might help you understand the process more easily.

I hope you have a great day. Sincerely, Thomas Shue

How to Extract Someone From A Background In Photoshop The Extended Version

How to Extract Someone From A Background In Photoshop The Short Version