How to Add a Background to a Photo
By Charlie
Published June 12, 2023
How to Add a Background to a Photo
In this digital age, where a picture speaks a thousand words, mastering the art of communication through imagery is crucial. Removing the background from your photo and adding a new one can dramatically alter its narrative, ambiance, or conveyed message. Whether you're an influencer aiming to make a splash on social media, a business owner seeking to engage potential clients, or an enthusiast eager to enhance personal snapshots, understanding how to remove and add backgrounds in photos is transformative. This comprehensive guide will delve into various software tools and techniques for removing backgrounds, setting the stage for you to reinvent your images with ease.
Why Add a New Background?
Before we delve into the "how", let's touch on the "why". Adding a new background to a photo can serve multiple purposes:
- Revamp the mood: Changing the background can create an entirely different mood or atmosphere. A gloomy sky can be swapped for a stunning sunset, or a dull room for an exotic beach.
- Enhance the subject: Sometimes, the original background is distracting or doesn't give your subject the attention it deserves. Placing your subject against a different backdrop can make it pop.
- Create brand consistency: For businesses, adding a consistent background across all product photos creates a professional look and strengthens brand identity.
- Fun and creativity: Let's not forget the fun factor! You can create fantasy scenes, humorous pictures, or simply experiment with different aesthetics.
Adding a Background Using Photoshop
Adobe Photoshop is a popular tool amongst professionals for its comprehensive features and precision.
1. Open your images
Open both your original photo and your new background photo in Photoshop.
2. Select the subject
Use a selection tool (Quick Selection, Magic Wand, or Lasso) to select the subject in your original image.
3. Refine edges
Click "Select and Mask" to refine the edges of your selection.
4. Copy the subject
With your subject selected, hit Ctrl+C (Cmd+C on Mac) to copy it.
5. Paste the subject onto the new background
Switch to your new background image and hit Ctrl+V (Cmd+V on Mac) to paste the subject.
6. Resize and reposition
Use the Move tool and Transform controls to resize and reposition your subject in the new background.
Adding a Background Using GIMP
GIMP is a free, open-source image editor that's a great alternative to Photoshop.
1. Open your images
Open both your original photo and your new background photo in GIMP.
2. Select the subject
Use the Scissors Select Tool or the Free Select Tool to select the subject of your photo.
3. Refine edges
Use the Feather Edges option to make the boundaries of your selection softer.
4. Copy the subject
With your subject selected, hit Ctrl+C (Cmd+C on Mac) to copy it.
5. Paste the subject onto the new background
Switch to your new background image and hit Ctrl+V (Cmd+V on Mac) to paste the subject.
6. Anchor the floating selection
In the Layers panel, right-click the "Floating Selection" and click "Anchor Layer".
7. Resize and reposition
Use the Move tool and the Scale tool to resize and reposition your subject in the new background.
Online Tools: Canva and Wallpapers
Canva and Wallpapers provide online tools that provide easy, user-friendly solutions for adding a new background to a photo.
Canva
- Upload your images: Upload both your original photo and your new background photo.
- Remove the original background: Use the Background Remover tool to erase the background from your original photo.
- Add the new background: Drag and drop your new background onto the canvas, and then add your subject on top of it.
- Resize and reposition: Click and drag to resize and reposition your subject within the new background.
Wallpapers
- Upload your original photo: Upload your original photo and let our online background remover tool automatically remove the background.
- Download the result: Download the image of your subject without a background.
- Use another software to add the new background: Open your new background image in any image editing software, and add your subject onto it (similar to the steps in the Photoshop or GIMP section).
Handy Tips for Adding a Background to a Photo
- Consistency is key: Ensure your subject and background are harmonious in terms of lighting, perspective, and color.
- Feather your edges: For a more natural blend between your subject and the new background, feather your selection edges.
- Use high-resolution images: To prevent quality loss, always use high-resolution images. Upscale your images before removing their background for better results.
- Be creative: Don't limit yourself to realistic backgrounds! Experiment with patterns, gradients, and abstract designs.
In conclusion, adding a background to a photo might seem challenging at first, but with the right tools and techniques, anyone can master it. Don't be afraid to experiment and let your creativity run wild!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add a background to a photo on my phone?
Yes, there are several mobile apps like PicsArt, LightX, and Snapseed that can be used to add a background to a photo.
What should I do if the edges of my subject look too harsh against the new background?
You can soften the edges by using the feathering or smoothing options in your image editing software.
Can I add a background to a photo in MS Paint?
While you can perform basic photo editing tasks in MS Paint, it's not ideal for adding a new background to a photo due to its limited capabilities.
What if I don’t have access to Photoshop?
There are many alternatives to Photoshop, like GIMP, Canva, and Pixlr, which are either free or more affordable.
How do I choose the right background for my photo?
The right background depends on what you want to achieve. Consider the mood, style, and purpose of the image, as well as the subject itself.