smart objects?? switching backgrounds

[lepariseau&eyork]

I am trying to change the background of a photo -- I started by using one of the tools to remove the parts I don't want then I save it.  that then seems to turn my photo into a smart object and I cannot drag and manipulate the replacement background that I want to use.the new background becomes a separate tab and completely obliterates my original. I've done this successfully 100s of times but I think I may have clicked on something in the menu bar or view inadvertently.  Help please.  I'm using PSE 2019 on a Macbook Pro

[hatstead · Accepted solution]

Try this:

1. Open picture B, the one with the new (replacement) background. Minimize this.
2. Open picture A, the one with the foreground object which you wish to retain. Use one of the selection tools, e.g. lasso tool, section brush) to select the object. You should see "marching ants" once the selection is complete.
3. Go to Edit>copy to place it on the clipboard
4. Go back to picture B and  go to Edit>paste
5. Activate the move tool and position the object (from A) and resize if necessary.

[lepariseau&eyork]

THANKS so much -- it worked almost flawlessly -- I wasn't careful enough doing my selection so I'll try it again.  I can't believe I spent so much time trying all the other methods when yours was so easy!!!  have a great weekend and again thank you!!!

[hatstead]

You're welcome. Glad to help.