I remember about 10 years ago, when I was just learning Photoshop, I used to cut out the objects I needed manually with the Lasso tool. It took me an hour and a half to create a simple photomontage. But time goes on. Now, neural networks for removing backgrounds from photos have sped up this process significantly — now you can complete the task in just a couple of minutes. In this article, I will discuss the best services for this task.
Removal.ai
Registration: required to access paid features
License: shareware, from $1.89 per image
Free removals: 1 image in HD quality, compressed images — no restrictions
A service for automatic and manual background removal. Removal.ai copes well even with complex and low-contrast areas. The site also has a graphics editor where you can crop, add text, shadows, and resize. You can also replace the background with a solid color, choose a background from the built-in library, or upload your own.
To save the result in high quality, you will need to purchase a package of images or subscribe. Rates depend on the number of images and start at $5.99 for 40 photos per month.
Pros:
- batch processing — up to 1,000 images at a time;
- the photo editor supports working with layers;
- You can manually correct inaccuracies.
Cons:
- Compresses the result to 800 px on the longer side;
- The interface is only in English.
Online background removal (PhotoMASTER)
Registration: Not required
License: free
Free removals: 3 per day
A convenient online tool from FotoMASTER — a photo retouching program. It works completely automatically: just upload the source file in PNG, JPEG, or JPG format, and in a few seconds the service will return the result with a transparent background. If desired, the background can be changed to a solid color or a new one can be selected from the catalog.
The background of the processed image can be changed as many times as desired, allowing several options to be downloaded at once. The result is saved in PNG format without watermarks.
Pros:
- Supports image resolutions up to 3000×3000 px
- Does not compromise the quality of the original;
- 50+ ready-made backgrounds for images;
- Unlimited palette of solid colors.
Cons:
- Does not always cope with “difficult” areas — hair, folds in clothing, etc.;
- To manually correct flaws, you need to download the program.
Erase.bg
Registration: required to access paid features
License: shareware, from $9 for 10 credits
Free removals: 3
A website for removing backgrounds from photos and erasing watermarks and logos. All actions are performed for credits. The scheme is simple: 1 credit = 1 image. You can upload source files with a resolution of up to 5000×5000 px in PNG, JPG, JPEG, WEBP, and HEIC formats.
Erase.bg has a built-in library of background images — bokeh, textures, gradients, etc. You can also upload your own options from your PC.