Expert: Kevin Stohlmeyer - 4/23/2008

Question
I'm using a Nikon D80(if that matters) to take pictures of some models and since their in my room I would like to make it seem like they are in a lit studio by deleting the background. I tried using the magnetic lasso but it looks fake..WHat should I do?

Photoshop cs3 extendned
windows xp

Thank you

Answer
Hi Brendan,

Im going to let you in on a little secret - the Magnetic lasso tool sucks. Heres my trick for model removal:

1. duplicate the layer. Im hoping you shot them on a white or neutral light gray background.

2. On the top layer, use quick mask to remove the background.

3. On the bottom layer, adjust the levels so that you blow out the existing backdrop.

4. Add your new background below the bottom layer.

5. Change the blown out layer with backdrop to multiply.

6. You can now erase the hair edges on the model on the top layer and as you do, the blownout/multiply layer will keep the fine hair in the shot.

Try this out and have fun!


Kevin