Want to cut out an image in Photoshop? We’ve compiled this guide to teach you how to do it in just a couple of clicks.
Cutting out an image is an essential Photoshop skill that allows you to change backgrounds, create collages and manipulate images to make something unique.
Read on to learn how to do it using the Object Selection button, or scroll to the troubleshooting section of this guide for a list of alternative tools you can use.
What you’ll need:
- Adobe Photoshop
- A Creative Cloud subscription
The Short Version
- Open an image in Photoshop
- Choose the Object Selection tool
- Click and drag to select an object
- Use Select and Mask to make any adjustments to your selection
- Use the Mask tool to cut out the image
How to cut out an image in Photoshop
Step
1Open an image in Photoshop
This can be any image you want to cut out.
Step
2Choose the Object Selection tool and click and drag the mouse over your object to select it
Or scroll down to the Troubleshooting section of this guide for a list of alternative tools you can use to cut out your image.
Step
3Click Select and Mask
You can skip steps 3 and 4 if you’re already happy with the shape Photoshop has selected.
Step
4Make any adjustments to your selection then click OK
You can use the Brush tool to add and remove parts of your selection, or the Refine Edge Brush to soften the edges. This is especially useful for things like hair and fur.
Step
5Click the Add A Mask icon to cut out your image
You can also just hit Ctrl/Cmd + C to copy the image and paste it into another layer or Photoshop file.
Troubleshooting
You don’t need to use the Object Selection tool to cut out images. Other popular options include the Magic Wand, the Lasso and the Pen tool.
We also have guides on how to change a background and remove a background in Photoshop.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.