In the era of digital photography and social media, editing images has become an essential part of our online presence. One of the most common edits people make to their photos is changing the background. Whether it’s to remove a distracting element, to match a specific theme, or simply to enhance the overall aesthetic of the image, background editing is a powerful tool. But, what app can change the background of a picture? In this article, we will delve into the world of photo editing, exploring the various applications that offer this feature, their functionalities, and how to use them effectively.
Introduction to Background Editing
Background editing is a complex process that involves separating the subject of the photo from its background and then replacing the background with a new image or color. This process requires a good understanding of the subject’s edges and how they interact with the background. Professional photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop has long been the gold standard for such tasks, offering precise tools for selecting and manipulating image elements. However, not everyone needs or wants to invest in professional software, especially for casual edits.
Mobile Apps for Background Editing
The rise of smartphone photography has led to a proliferation of mobile apps designed to edit photos on the go. Many of these apps offer background editing features, ranging from simple to advanced. Some of the most popular apps include:
- Adobe Photoshop Express: A simplified version of Adobe Photoshop, designed for mobile devices. It offers a range of tools, including background editing, though with less complexity than its desktop counterpart.
- PicsArt: Known for its wide array of editing tools and filters, PicsArt also features a background editor that allows users to change the background of their photos with ease.
- Canva: Primarily a graphic design platform, Canva also offers photo editing capabilities, including background removal and replacement.
How to Use Mobile Apps for Background Editing
Using mobile apps for background editing is relatively straightforward. Most apps follow a similar process:
1. Upload your photo to the app.
2. Select the background editing tool.
3. Use the app’s selection tool to outline the subject of your photo. This can be done manually or automatically, depending on the app.
4. Once the subject is selected, you can choose a new background from the app’s library, use a photo from your gallery, or select a solid color.
5. Adjust the edges and fine-tune the selection as needed to ensure a seamless integration of the subject with the new background.
6. Save and share your edited photo.
Desktop Applications for Advanced Background Editing
For those who require more advanced features and precision, desktop applications are the way to go. These programs offer more powerful tools and greater control over the editing process.
Professional Software
Adobe Photoshop stands out as the industry standard for professional photo editing. Its select and mask tools allow for precise selection of the subject, even in complex scenarios like hair or transparent objects. Other professional software like Skylum Luminar and Capture One also offer advanced background editing capabilities, though they might not be as renowned for this specific feature as Photoshop.
Free and Open-Source Alternatives
Not everyone can afford professional software, and thankfully, there are free and open-source alternatives. GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a popular choice, offering many of the features found in Adobe Photoshop, including background editing tools. While it may have a steeper learning curve and not all the bells and whistles of professional software, GIMP is a powerful tool in its own right.
Online Tools for Background Editing
For those who don’t want to download any software, online tools can be a convenient option. Websites like Remove.bg and Clipping Magic offer automatic background removal with impressive accuracy, especially for portraits and well-defined subjects. These tools are often free for small images or offer a paid subscription for larger files or more advanced features.
Advantages and Limitations of Online Tools
The main advantage of online tools is their ease of use and accessibility. You can edit your photos from any device with a web browser, without needing to install any software. However, they might not offer the same level of precision as desktop applications, and their automatic algorithms can sometimes struggle with complex images.
Tips for Effective Background Editing
Regardless of the app or software you choose, there are a few tips to keep in mind for effective background editing:
– Start with a high-quality image. The better the original photo, the easier it will be to edit.
– Pay attention to edges. A well-defined edge between the subject and the background makes the editing process much smoother.
– Experiment with different backgrounds. Sometimes, what you think will work doesn’t, so don’t be afraid to try out different options.
– Save multiple versions. As you edit, save different versions of your photo. This allows you to compare edits and go back to a previous version if needed.
In conclusion, whether you’re a casual user looking to enhance your social media posts or a professional seeking to perfect your portfolio, there’s an app or software out there that can change the background of a picture to meet your needs. From mobile apps like Adobe Photoshop Express and PicsArt, to desktop applications such as Adobe Photoshop and GIMP, and even online tools like Remove.bg, the options are vast and varied. By understanding the capabilities and limitations of each, and by following a few simple tips, you can achieve professional-looking edits that elevate your photos to the next level.
What are the best apps to change the background of a picture?
There are several apps available that can change the background of a picture, depending on the device and operating system you are using. For Android devices, some popular options include Adobe Photoshop Express, PicsArt, and YouCam Makeup. These apps offer a range of tools and features that allow you to easily remove the background of an image and replace it with a new one. You can choose from a variety of backgrounds, including solid colors, textures, and images, to create a unique and personalized look.
In addition to these apps, there are also several options available for iOS devices, including TouchRetouch, Background Eraser, and Superimpose. These apps offer similar features and tools to their Android counterparts, allowing you to easily edit and customize your images. Some apps also offer additional features, such as the ability to add text, stickers, and other effects to your images. By exploring the different options available, you can find the app that best meets your needs and helps you to achieve the desired look for your images.
How do I change the background of a picture using Adobe Photoshop Express?
To change the background of a picture using Adobe Photoshop Express, you will need to download and install the app on your device. Once you have installed the app, you can open it and select the image you want to edit from your photo gallery. The app will then allow you to choose from a variety of tools and features, including the “Background” tool, which allows you to remove the background of the image and replace it with a new one. You can choose from a range of backgrounds, including solid colors, textures, and images, and adjust the settings to achieve the desired look.
To remove the background of the image, you will need to use the “Background” tool to select the area of the image you want to remove. You can do this by drawing around the object or person in the image, or by using the “Auto” feature, which allows the app to automatically detect the background and remove it. Once you have removed the background, you can choose a new background from the app’s library, or upload your own image to use as the background. The app also offers a range of additional features and tools, including filters, effects, and adjustments, which can be used to further customize and enhance your image.
Can I change the background of a picture online without using an app?
Yes, it is possible to change the background of a picture online without using an app. There are several online tools and websites that offer background removal and editing services, including Canva, Remove.bg, and Clipping Magic. These websites allow you to upload your image and use a range of tools and features to remove the background and replace it with a new one. You can choose from a variety of backgrounds, including solid colors, textures, and images, and adjust the settings to achieve the desired look.
To use an online background removal tool, you will need to upload your image to the website and select the area of the image you want to remove. You can do this by drawing around the object or person in the image, or by using the “Auto” feature, which allows the website to automatically detect the background and remove it. Once you have removed the background, you can choose a new background from the website’s library, or upload your own image to use as the background. The website will then allow you to download the edited image, which can be used for a variety of purposes, including social media, websites, and print materials.
How do I remove the background of a picture with a complex background?
Removing the background of a picture with a complex background can be challenging, but there are several tools and techniques that can help. One approach is to use a background removal app or online tool that offers advanced features and tools, such as Adobe Photoshop Express or Remove.bg. These tools allow you to select the area of the image you want to remove and adjust the settings to achieve the desired level of precision. You can also use the “Refine Edge” tool to fine-tune the selection and remove any remaining background pixels.
To remove the background of a picture with a complex background, you will need to use a combination of tools and techniques. First, you will need to select the area of the image you want to remove, using a tool such as the “Lasso” or “Magic Wand”. You can then use the “Refine Edge” tool to fine-tune the selection and remove any remaining background pixels. You may also need to use additional tools, such as the “Clone Stamp” or “Healing Brush”, to remove any remaining background elements. By using a combination of these tools and techniques, you can achieve a high level of precision and remove even the most complex backgrounds.
Can I change the background of a picture to a transparent background?
Yes, it is possible to change the background of a picture to a transparent background. This can be useful for a variety of purposes, including creating images for websites, social media, and print materials. To change the background of a picture to a transparent background, you will need to use a background removal app or online tool that offers this feature, such as Adobe Photoshop Express or Remove.bg. These tools allow you to select the area of the image you want to remove and replace it with a transparent background.
To change the background of a picture to a transparent background, you will need to use a tool such as the “Background” tool in Adobe Photoshop Express. This tool allows you to select the area of the image you want to remove and replace it with a transparent background. You can then adjust the settings to achieve the desired level of precision and remove any remaining background pixels. The resulting image will have a transparent background, which can be used for a variety of purposes, including creating images for websites, social media, and print materials. You can also use the image in combination with other images or backgrounds to create a unique and personalized look.
How do I save an edited image with a new background?
To save an edited image with a new background, you will need to use the “Save” or “Export” feature in the app or online tool you are using. This feature allows you to save the edited image to your device or upload it to a website or social media platform. You can choose from a variety of file formats, including JPEG, PNG, and GIF, and adjust the settings to achieve the desired level of quality and compression. You can also add additional features, such as watermarks or captions, to the image before saving it.
Once you have saved the edited image, you can use it for a variety of purposes, including social media, websites, and print materials. You can also share the image with others, either by uploading it to a website or social media platform, or by sending it to them via email or messaging app. To ensure that the image is saved with the correct settings, you should check the file format and quality settings before saving it. You should also make sure that the image is saved in a location where it can be easily accessed and used, such as in a photo gallery or folder on your device.