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Photoshop Tutorial - EASIEST Trick for Perfect Selections

Howto & Style

Introduction

In this article, we will explore how to refine your selections in Photoshop using blend modes and masking techniques. This method is especially useful for subjects with fine details, such as fur or hair. By the end of this tutorial, you'll have the skills to create flawless selections that blend seamlessly with different backgrounds.

Preparing Your Workspace

To start, choose an image to work with. You can download the image used in this tutorial from the link provided in the description. To set up your workspace:

  1. Create a backdrop: For this tutorial, we will use a simple black background to avoid distracting edges due to brighter backgrounds.
  2. Unlock the background layer and place the solid color background beneath your subject.

Selecting and Masking

  1. Enter the Select and Mask Workspace: This workspace provides you with all the tools necessary for detailed selection.

  2. Select Subject: Click on "Select Subject" to begin the initial selection of your subject.

  3. Use the Quick Selection Tool: If there are areas missing in your selection, use the Quick Selection Tool to paint over those areas.

  4. Refine Your Selection:

    • Use the Brush Tool to paint over missing parts.
    • Click the "Refine Edge" button to fine-tune edges, especially around hair or fur. This tool helps in revealing new details and strands that weren't visible earlier.

Improving the Mask

Once you're satisfied with the initial mask, you can enhance it further using blend modes:

  1. Convert to Layer Mask: Scroll down and select "Layer Mask" from the drop-down menu and press OK.

  2. Edit the Mask:

    • Hold down the Alt (Option) key and click on the mask thumbnail to isolate the mask.
    • Use a soft round brush with white as the foreground color.
    • Change the brush mode from Normal to Overlay and set the Flow to 30%. This allows you to paint on areas closer to white without affecting the black areas.

  3. Correcting Areas:

    • Switch to black and paint over areas that require correction.

Final Touches with Blend Modes

After refining the mask, you might notice that edges appear problematic when switching to a brighter background. Follow these steps:

  1. Duplicate and Group Layers: Duplicate your mask layer twice and group them. Label the first group "Bright Areas."

  2. Set Group Blending Mode: Change the blending mode of the "Bright Areas" group to Screen. This will help define your subject’s strands against a lighter background.

  3. Create Dark Areas Group: Duplicate the previous group and rename it "Dark Areas." Set this group’s blending mode to Multiply.

  4. Inverting Masks:

    • Hold down the Alt or Option key and click on the mask icon to add an inverted mask to the group.
    • Switch the brush mode to Normal. Paint over shadow areas to improve fringes.

  5. Final Adjustments: Finally, drag the mask from the Bright Areas group to the Dark Areas group. Invert the mask by pressing Ctrl (Command) + I.

Now your selection will appear seamless with beautifully defined edges that adapt well to any background.

Conclusion

With these techniques, you can refine your selections in Photoshop, ensuring that hair and fur details are perfect. Feel free to change colors, create vignettes, or try different backgrounds. If you found this tutorial helpful, don't forget to like and subscribe for more tips and tricks. Consider supporting our channel on Patreon for access to tutorial PSD files.

Keyword

Keywords: Photoshop, blend modes, selections, layer mask, refine edge, quick selection tool, subject selection, adjustment, background blending, fur and hair selection.

FAQ

Q1: What Photoshop version is required for these techniques?
A1: These techniques should work in Photoshop CC and newer versions.

Q2: Can I use these methods for subjects other than fur?
A2: Absolutely! While this tutorial focuses on fur and hair, the techniques can be applied to any subject needing precise selections.

Q3: Do I need a graphics tablet to get the best results?
A3: While a graphics tablet can help with precision, a regular mouse will work well too.

Q4: How do blend modes affect my selections?
A4: Blend modes change how layers interact with each other, helping you refine edges and enhance details for a more natural look.

Q5: Where can I find more Photoshop tutorials?
A5: You can subscribe to the PSDesire YouTube channel and check their community tab for updates and additional content.