Guide to Removing or Replacing Image Backgrounds in Photos on Windows 11

Key Notes

  • Easily remove backgrounds from images using the Photos app in Windows 11.
  • Replace image backgrounds with solid colors effortlessly.
  • Explore manual background adjustments using brush tools.

Master Image Background Editing in Windows 11’s Photos App

Removing or replacing image backgrounds has become easier with the new features in the Photos app on Windows 11. This guide will walk you through the steps to enhance your photo editing skills.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Image Background

Follow these detailed steps to eliminate your image’s background using Windows 11 Photos app:

  1. Step 1: Launch the Photos Application

    Begin by opening Photos on your Windows 11 device.

  2. Step 2: Choose the Image to Edit

    Select the image whose background you wish to edit from your library.

  3. Step 3: Access the Edit Feature

    Click on the Edit image option or simply press Ctrl + E.

  4. Step 4: Navigate to Background Options

    Locate and click on the Background button in the toolbar.

  5. Step 5: Remove the Unwanted Background

    Hit the Remove button to clear the background.

  6. Step 6: Optional Brush Tool for Refinements

    Toggle on the Background brush tool for more control over the areas to be removed.

  7. Step 7: Customize Brush Settings

    Adjust the brush size and softness settings to your preference.

  8. Step 8: Manually Remove Remaining Background

    Utilize the brush tool to select and remove any leftover background elements.

  9. Step 9: Finalize Your Changes

    Press the Apply button to confirm the changes.

  10. Step 10: Save Your Edited Image

    Click on Save options, and select Save as copy to keep your original image intact.

  11. Step 11: Choose Your Saving Destination

    Select a location on your computer and save the image in the desired format.

Once complete, the Photos app will save your edited image with a transparent background as a “.png” file.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Image Background

Here’s how to change the background color of an image using the Photos app:

  1. Step 1: Open the Photos Application

    Launch Photos on your Windows 11 device.

  2. Step 2: Select Your Image

    Navigate to the image you want to modify.

  3. Step 3: Access the Edit Option

    Click on Edit image (or press Ctrl + E ).

  4. Step 4: Select Background Editing

    Click the Background button in the command bar.

  5. Step 5: Choose to Replace Background

    Select the Replace option to change the background color.

  6. Step 6: Select a New Background Color

    Choose the solid color you want to apply as the new background from the available options.

  7. Step 7: Optional Brush Tool Activation

    Activate the Background brush tool for precise adjustments.

  8. Step 8: Manually Adjust Background Area

    Use the Add option or the Subtract tool for manual adjustments as needed.

  9. Step 9: Adjust Brush Settings

    Tweak the brush size and softness for the best results.

  10. Step 10: Apply Changes

    Once satisfied, hit the Apply button to execute the changes.

  11. Step 11: Save Your New Image

    Select Save options and choose Save as copy to preserve the original.

  12. Step 12: Choose Save Location

    Finalize by selecting where to save this edited version on your computer.

After completing the above steps, the background will be replaced with the solid color you selected.

Note that while you cannot directly replace the background with another image, you can remove the background and then overlay this image onto another image with the background you desire.

Additional Tips

  • Always confirm that your edits maintain the image’s resolution and quality.
  • Experiment with different brush sizes for the best precision while editing backgrounds.
  • Use transparent backgrounds creatively by combining them with other images for unique compositions.

Summary

This guide provided a detailed walkthrough for removing and replacing image backgrounds with the Photos app on Windows 11. By following the outlined steps, users can enhance their photo editing capabilities and create impressive visuals effortlessly.

Conclusion

By mastering the features of the Photos app in Windows 11 for editing image backgrounds, you can significantly improve your photography and design projects. Whether you want to create transparent backgrounds or switch colors, the steps provided will help you achieve professional-looking results in no time. Get started with your image enhancements today!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I replace the image background with another picture?

Currently, the Photos app allows replacing the background only with a solid color. To use another image as a background, remove the current background and overlay the cut-out onto another image manually.

What file format does the Photos app save for transparent images?

The Photos app saves images with transparent backgrounds as “.png” files, which ensures that transparency is preserved.