2 Fastest Methods for People Cutout in Photoshop: Traditional vs AI

Learn the two fastest methods for cutting out people in Photoshop, covering both traditional quick operations and AI intelligent tools.

Method 1: Traditional Fast Cutout in Photoshop — Quick Selection Tool + Select and Mask

Ideal for simple backgrounds and clear character outlines. Convenient operation without complex settings.

Step 1: Open Photoshop, import your image. Press Ctrl+J (or Cmd+J on Mac) to duplicate the background layer to protect the original.

Step 2: Select the “Quick Selection Tool” (shortcut W) from the left toolbar. Brush over the main subject to generate a selection automatically. Hold the Alt key to subtract unwanted areas.

Photoshop — Quick Selection Tool + Select and Mask

Step 3: Right-click on the selection and choose “Select and Mask”. Use the “Refine Edge Brush Tool” on the left to gently paint over hair edges for optimization.

 Refine Edge Brush Tool

Step 4: Output as “Layer Mask”. Hide the original background layer to complete the cutout.


Method 2: PsAide Background Remover — AI Cutout Function

Adapts to all scenes, completes in just 3 steps. Efficiency far surpasses traditional methods, accurately identifying even complex hair strands.

Step 1: Install the PsAide plugin (compatible with Photoshop CC 2015+). Open Photoshop and find the plugin panel. Launch the Background Remover module.

PsAide Background Remover

Step 2: Import the picture of the person you need to remove the background from. Press Ctrl+A to select the entire picture (or directly click the “Import Picture” button of the plugin), and then click the “Remove Background” button.

PsAide Background Remover

Step 3: Wait 3-5 seconds. The AI will automatically separate the person from the background, outputting a clean cutout on a transparent layer.

PsAide Background Remover

Comparison of the Two Methods

FeatureQuick Selection + Select and MaskPsAide AI Cutout
Speed3-5 minutes3-5 seconds
DifficultySimpleExtremely Simple
ScenarioSimple background portraitsAll scenarios (complex bg, fine hair)
Learning CurveLow0 (Prompt-based)
Best ForLearning PS basics, simple editsEfficiency, complex images, batch work

Essential Tips for Perfect Cutouts

  1. Use High-Resolution Images: Always start with the highest quality original for better detail recognition.
  2. Work Non-Destructively: Duplicate your background layer (Ctrl+J) before starting any cutout method.
  3. Choose the Right Tool: For efficiency and complex edges, choose PsAide Background Remover. To understand Photoshop fundamentals, practice the traditional method.
  4. Refine with Soft Brushes: When touching up layer masks, use a soft-edged brush for more natural transitions.
  5. Check Edges at 100% Zoom: Always inspect your cutout edges at full size to ensure quality.

Try both methods and effortlessly solve your people cutout challenges!

Invitation Code: A86R4u

Click here to discover more usage tips and in-depth information on Nano Banana Pro!

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