How to Remove Background in Affinity Photo

By Douglas Published February 23, 2024

Removing backgrounds from images is a pivotal skill in the realm of image editing software, essential for enhancing images and crafting a canvas that unleashes limitless creativity. Learning to remove background in Photoshop and mastering how to remove background in GIMP are foundational techniques in digital editing. Alongside these well-established programs, Affinity Photo has emerged as a strong contender, celebrated for its robust features, user-friendly interface, and cost-effectiveness. Let's dive into the process of background removal in Affinity Photo, expanding our toolkit of creative possibilities.

Step-by-Step Guide to Remove Background in Affinity Photo

Step 1: Open Your Image

First things first, launch Affinity Photo and open the image you wish to edit. You can do this by selecting File > Open from the menu or dragging and dropping the image directly into the workspace.

Step 2: Select the Selection Brush Tool

Navigate to the Tools panel and choose the Selection Brush Tool. This tool is your magic wand for highlighting the areas of the image you want to keep.

Step 3: Adjust the Brush Settings

Before you start selecting, adjust the brush size, hardness, and other settings to suit the complexity of your image. A larger brush can cover more area, while a smaller brush is perfect for detailing.

Step 4: Paint Over the Subject

With the Selection Brush Tool active, carefully paint over the area of the image you want to keep. Affinity Photo does an excellent job of detecting edges, but take your time to ensure accuracy.

Step 5: Refine the Selection

After outlining your subject, go to the Select menu and choose Refine Edges. This opens a new dialog box where you can tweak the edges of your selection, ensuring a smooth and natural look.

Step 6: Remove the Background

Once satisfied with your selection, invert it by choosing Select > Invert Selection. Then, hit the Delete key on your keyboard. Voilà! The background disappears, leaving only your selected subject.

Step 7: Clean Up

In some cases, you might notice a few remnants of the background or areas that need touch-ups. Use the Clone Brush Tool or the Patch Tool to clean up any imperfections.

Step 8: Upscale Image (Optional)

If you're looking to not only remove the background but also enhance your image's resolution, Affinity Photo offers powerful tools to upscale your image. This is particularly useful for printing or web design, where image quality is paramount.

Step 9: Save Your Work

Finally, save your masterpiece. Affinity Photo allows you to save in various formats, depending on your needs. Go to File > Save As and choose the appropriate format for your project.

Creative Tips for Background Removal

• Use Layers: Working with layers can significantly enhance your workflow. Duplicate your original layer before making changes, so you always have an untouched version to revert to if needed.
• Zoom In: For intricate details, zooming in on your image can help you make more precise selections. This is especially helpful around the edges of your subject.
• Experiment with Different Selection Tools: Depending on your image, some tools may work better than others. Don't hesitate to experiment with the Magic Wand Tool or Pen Tool for different types of images.

Conclusion

Removing backgrounds in image editing software, particularly in Affinity Photo, is a gateway to unleashing your creative potential, allowing your subjects to shine without distraction. Whether you're preparing images for professional projects or personal endeavors, mastering how to remove backgrounds in image editing software seamlessly is invaluable. Affinity Photo not only makes this process accessible but also enjoyable, thanks to its intuitive interface and powerful features.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Each image presents its own set of challenges, and with time, you'll find your rhythm and techniques that work best for you in removing backgrounds in image editing software. So, dive in, explore, and let your creativity soar with Affinity Photo.