How to make background of an object transparent.

Forum|Forum|5 years ago
April 4, 2021
2 replies
639 views

I selected my main element (a mammoth) with the selection tool. I would like to make the background transparent (or disappear, so that I am left with only the mammoth to use in a publication.

How to

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Correct answer Michael Bullo

If you have a multi-layered file, start by selecting that layer from within the Layers panel. If not, don't worry. Then, with your selection already created, simply press the "Add layer mask" button at the bottom of the Layers panel. The checkerboard pattern shows areas that are now transparent.

If you are working on a file like a JPEG, your Background layer will be converted into a regular layer that can support transparency. If you want to preserve this new mask, be sure to save your file as a Photoshop file.

Michael Bullo

Correct answer

Community Expert

If you have a multi-layered file, start by selecting that layer from within the Layers panel. If not, don't worry. Then, with your selection already created, simply press the "Add layer mask" button at the bottom of the Layers panel. The checkerboard pattern shows areas that are now transparent.

If you are working on a file like a JPEG, your Background layer will be converted into a regular layer that can support transparency. If you want to preserve this new mask, be sure to save your file as a Photoshop file.