Creating a Custom Instant Background Remover in Adobe Photoshop Using AI-Generated Masks

Introduction

In today’s digital landscape, removing unwanted backgrounds from images can be a daunting task. Traditional methods often involve manual editing, which can be time-consuming and may not yield the desired results. However, with the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms, it is now possible to create custom instant background removers in Adobe Photoshop using AI-generated masks.

Understanding AI-Generated Masks

Before diving into the process, let’s first understand what an AI-generated mask is. A mask is a binary image that separates the foreground from the background. In traditional methods, creating such a mask would require manual editing or the use of third-party software. However, with AI-generated masks, we can leverage machine learning algorithms to create these masks automatically.

Prerequisites

Before proceeding, ensure you have:

Adobe Photoshop CC (or later)
A computer with a suitable processor and RAM
An internet connection for downloading pre-trained models

Step 1: Prepare Your Image

Create a new document in Photoshop with the image you want to edit. Ensure the background is transparent or similar in color.

Step 2: Download Pre-Trained Models

There are several AI-generated mask models available online, including those from Deep Dream Generator and Mask RCNN. For this example, we’ll use the former.

Go to Deep Dream Generator and upload your image.
Wait for the model to process; this may take a few minutes depending on your internet connection.
Download the resulting image with the AI-generated mask.

Step 3: Import Mask

Open Photoshop and go to File > Scripts > Browse…. Navigate to the downloaded image and select it.

[EXAMPLE_START:python]
mask = cv2.imread(“path_to_your_mask_image”)
[/EXAMPLE_END]

Step 4: Create a New Layer

Create a new layer by going to Layer > New > Layer or by pressing Ctrl+Shift+N (Windows) or Cmd+Shift+N (Mac).

Step 5: Apply Mask

Go to Select > Load Mask From Disk… and select the mask image. This will automatically apply the mask to your new layer.

Step 6: Refine Mask

You may need to refine the mask by manually editing it using the Brush Tool or Clone Stamp Tool.

Step 7: Remove Background

With the refined mask in place, go to Select > Invert to invert the selection. This will select the background, allowing you to remove it easily.

[EXAMPLE_START:python]
import numpy as np
from PIL import Image

Open image

img = Image.open(“path_to_your_image”)

Invert mask

mask_inv = ~np.array(img)

Apply mask

result = img * mask_inv

[/EXAMPLE_END]

Step 8: Finalize Edits

Make any final edits to your image, ensuring the background is completely removed.

Conclusion

Creating a custom instant background remover in Adobe Photoshop using AI-generated masks has opened up new possibilities for digital editing. By leveraging machine learning algorithms and pre-trained models, you can automate tasks that would otherwise require manual effort. However, this technique requires careful consideration and refinement to ensure optimal results.

Experiment with different pre-trained models and refine your workflow to achieve the desired outcome.

This article provides a general overview of using AI-generated masks in Photoshop for background removal. For more advanced techniques or specific questions, consider exploring online forums and communities dedicated to digital editing and machine learning.

AI Mask Creation Tips - Photoshop Background Removal