How can I create a black background for a daylight portrait in post-processing?
Asked 7/31/2014
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2 answers
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I shot a portrait in daylight and want to achieve a clean black background like the example image. I tried doing it in Lightroom but couldn’t get the result I wanted. What software and editing approach are typically used for this effect?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
12y ago
2 Answers
5
Lightroom isn't designed for this type of photo editing; this is what Photoshop is designed to do. Even if you don't eventually use Photoshop, search Google/Youtube for "Photoshop Masking", or "Replace Background Photoshop". There are literally hundreds of tutorials that will walk you through how to mask.
Originally by user4880. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user4880
12y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
For this kind of edit, Photoshop is the usual tool rather than Lightroom alone. The effect is typically done by masking the subject and replacing or darkening the background to solid black.
A common workflow is:
- Make your basic exposure/color adjustments in Adobe Camera Raw or Lightroom.
- Open the image in Photoshop.
- Use masking/selection tools to separate the subject from the background.
- Darken, replace, or paint the background to black.
- Refine the mask edges so the portrait looks natural.
If you’re learning, search for tutorials on “Photoshop masking” or “replace background in Photoshop.” Those will show the exact steps for isolating the subject and creating a clean black background.
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