Expert: Scott Valentine - 3/9/2009

Question
Hi,
I'm new to Photoshop CS4 extended but have used Elements 7(and have used the magic extractor)
I would like to change the background in some of my pictures and understand that the Extract Filter would be helpful. I have tried to find this feature and have looked under filters and all other items on my tool bar and have not been successful in finding it.

Any advice or alternative suggestions would be most appreciated

Answer
Hi Alex,

The Extract Filter was removed from CS4 due to other tools being much more useful and flexible. The first tool you should look for is the Quick Selection tool - it behaves like the Magic Wand, but 'learns' as you select areas. You will still have to ensure your images have sufficient contrast between the subject and background, but I've found it to be much faster and more forgiving than the Extract Filter. Plus, it's non-destructive.

If you would like more information on masking and complex selections, see my tutorials at CommunityMX.com:

http://www.communitymx.com/author.cfm?cid=1273

(the masking tutorials are at the bottom - Part 1 is free)

You can also get more in-depth help for free at several online forums. I help run http://photoshoptechniques.com/forum Just post your questions and an example and the community will do their best to help you out.

However, you can download packages to replace several filters. For Mac use this link:
http://www.adobe.com/support/downloads/detail.jsp?ftpID=4047

For Windows, use this one:
http://www.adobe.com/support/downloads/detail.jsp?ftpID=4048

If you purchased CS4 on DVD, then check the Extras folder for the install package. There should be directions in a text file, too.

I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have further questions.

-Scott