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Sometimes users need to make their image background transparent, whether for entertainment or business reasons. Making an image transparent, even partially, can give you various ways to enhance your material. Several questions come to mind: how do you make a picture transparent? One of the most common answers is Photoshop.
Photoshop is a widely used image manipulation tool that allows you to add transparency to your image in a range of ways. The benefits of using a transparent background are countless.
Moreover, using a transparent background lets you replace or customize backgrounds to make your photo more attractive. Whether you're designing a product listing, crafting social media graphics or simply enhancing a favorite photo, the ability to remove the background can make a significant difference.
Transparent backgrounds add polish and flexibility, making it easier to reuse images across different platforms. If you’re looking for a free transparent background maker, many tools that can automatically detect and remove backgrounds in seconds.
In this blog, I will discuss several methods you can use to add transparency to your pictures, from the traditional method to the latest, advanced AI-powered tools. I will discuss the top 8 tools that are simple, effective, and capable of making an image transparent.
What is a transparent background, and why is it useful?
A transparent background in an image means it has no visible background color, allowing the main subject to be seen clearly against any other color, pattern, or design. This lets a subject or logo stand out because the background can be removed and the image placed smoothly on any other design without being captured in a solid box.
Your choice of image background can significantly impact the presentation of your branding or enhance the scene and emotion of a subject. It helps ensure brand components remain consistent across printed materials, social media, merchandise, websites, and much more.
Transparent backgrounds are essential for design projects where you need to layer various images, colors, or shapes to create depth and interesting visual effects.
How to make an image transparent in Photoshop
Photoshop is a popular image manipulation tool that allows you to add transparency to your photo in a range of ways. Photoshop provides tools to remove the background and create transparent images.
Formats like PNG and GIF support background transparency. Newer formats, such as WebP and AVIF, also support transparency, whereas JPG does not. Saving a transparent image as JPG will replace transparent areas with a background color.
From removing backgrounds to creating transparent photos, I’ll cover all the steps on how to make a background transparent in Photoshop.
Different ways to make an image transparent in Photoshop
1. Making Layers transparent
If users want to know how to make an image transparent, one easy method is to learn how to make layers transparent. Lowering a layer’s opacity makes it see-through, which helps when blending with other images or overlays. Let's see one example.
Step 1: Select the layer in the layers panel. If it’s the locked background layer, double-click it to convert/unlock it first.
Step 2: Select the opacity level in the box that appears at the top of the layers. The default is 100% but you can take it as low as 0%
Step 3: Hide/remove any layer behind, then export as -> PNG/WebP (preserves transparency).
2. Create a transparent selection
If users want to merge or combine pictures, then you might need to make parts of your layer transparent. Select the area on the target layer, then delete it or add a layer mask to make it transparent. You can hide or delete the layer beneath to preview transparency. Select the area you want to alter using the selection tool, then follow the steps below.
Step 1: Copy the area to a new layer by right-clicking and choosing Copy via Layer.
Step 2: With a selection active, click the Add layer mask button. If the wrong area is hidden, invert the mask (Ctrl + I/Cmd + I).
Step 3: If you used Ctrl+C instead of layer via copy, press Ctrl+V to paste the selection into a new layer.
Step 4: Use blend modes for creative compositing; for actual transparent pixels, use masks/erasers.
Various techniques are available for making an image transparent
There are various tools to use for making selections and creating multiple layers in Photoshop. Selecting the subject is the first step for making changes to an image, such as making it transparent, separating the subject from the background for targeted edits, or placing the subject on a solid background like white.
Let's take a look at various individual tools that help to create selections and make transparent images.
1. Magic wand tool
The Photoshop magic wand tool selects similarly colored regions. This tool is particularly useful for subjects that have a strong contrast against the background.
Steps to making an image transparent
- Open your image in Photoshop.
- Unlock the background layer by double-clicking it in the layer panel or clicking the lock icon on the right side.
- Select the magic wand tool from the toolbar on the left.
- Adjust tolerance in the options bar at the top. A lower tolerance selects only the very same colors, while a higher one selects a broader range.
- Click on the background you want to make transparent.
- Press the Delete key to delete the selected background. After selecting, click “add layer mask” instead of Delete. (Optionally enable contiguous and anti-aliasing in options.)
2. Quick selection tool
The quick selection tool works like a brush, selecting similar-looking areas as you drag it across the image. It’s similar to the magic wand, but generally performs better on complex or multi-colored images ,especially when paired with Select and Mask.
Steps to make an image transparent
- Open your image in Photoshop.
- Unlock the background layer if needed by clicking the lock icon.
- Use the quick selection tool.
- Refine by adding/subtracting with shift/Alt or shift/option. In the latest versions of Photoshop, you can also use the Properties panel to access Quick Actions and select 'Remove Background' for automated refinement.
- Add a layer mask (non-destructive).
- Save your image.
3. Lasso tool
For subjects with unclear edges, automated tools may struggle. The Lasso tool provides manual control; however, for selecting fine, blurry edges, using the mask is often more effective.
Step-by-step guide to use the lasso tool
- Open an image in Photoshop.
- Select the Lasso tool from the toolbar. The Lasso tool is grouped with its variations, the polygonal lasso and magnetic lasso, under the same icon.
- Draw a freehand selection. To add to the selection, hold down Shift while drawing to include an existing selection. To subtract from the selection, hold down the Option key while drawing to remove unwanted areas.
- Click select and mask in the option bar, then use the Refine Edge Brush.
- Go to select > inverse to select the background instead of your subject.
- Please remove the background and save your image.
Top 8 best free image transparent tools you can use online
| Tool | AI Features | Easy to use | Speed | Batch processing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pixelbin.io | AI-powered | Very easy | Very Fast | Yes (in paid plans) |
| Erase.bg | AI-powered | Beginner-friendly | Very fast | Yes (API/premium) |
| Remove.bg | AI-based | Friendly | Fast | Yes(deskotop /app/ API) |
| Photoroom | AI-powered | Friendly | Very fast | Yes( Pro plan only) |
| Fotor | AI-powered | Very Intuitive | Fast | Yes |
| Picsart | AI-based | Easy for beginners | Medium | No |
| Pixelcut.ai | AI-powered | Simple and intuitive | Fast | Yes |
| Pixlr | AI powered | Very easy | Medium | No |
Top 8 free tools to make an image transparent.
There are many tools available online, but not all of them deliver the best results without extra steps or hidden fees. Some do not require sign-ups; others limit downloads, and a few just don’t handle tricky edges well.
I’ll test 8 top tools to see which ones actually work for free and make the process easy. Below you’ll find the various tools and step-by-step instructions on how to use them.
1. Pixelbin.io
Pixelbin.io is an all-in-one platform for automated transformations like resizing, optimizing, and background removal. It uses AI to automatically separate the foreground from the background, with varying accuracy depending on the image.
Pixelbin can remove backgrounds and offers transforms like filters, resizing, sharpening, and compression. Some transforms are lossless; compression settings let you trade size for quality.
The tool can quickly make an image transparent and allows you to export it as a PNG file, preserving transparency. Processing speed can depend on the image and the current server load. pixelbin offers three free plans.
Key features
- It’s easy to use and suitable for beginners.
- Fast processing.
- Freely available.
- Excellent result without affecting its quality.
Steps to make an image transparent
Step 1: Visit Pixelbin.io.
Step 2: Click on AI background remover from the top navigation bar.
Step 3: Click on the button to upload a photo, or drag and drop it directly into the website's design area. Upload an image that you want to be transparent.
Step 4: The AI-powered tool will automatically detect and make an image transparent instantly.
Step 5: Download your image.
2. Erase.bg
Erase.bg uses AI to automatically remove backgrounds, providing transparent PNG files, making it easy to create images with no background. For marketers and small company owners who require instant, usable, transparent photographs for e-commerce and marketing, Erase.bg makes background removal simple.
It supports JPG, JPEG, PNG, WEBP, and HEIC uploads and outputs transparent PNGs. Free tiers may limit resolution for advanced features that require a paid plan. Erase.bg is designed for speed and simplicity—you can try it with a simple upload and download, though high-resolution or repeated downloads may need an account.
Whether you’re a graphic designer, an e-commerce entrepreneur, or a social media enthusiast, Erase.bg provides a smooth solution for enhancing your visuals and creating the best designs.
It allows you to make images of humans, animals, or objects transparent. It’s a free, user-friendly service available online and via mobile apps for iOS and Android, allowing users to upload images and download the result in high resolution.
Key Features
- Free credits available.
- Easy-to-use interface.
- No technical expertise needed.
- No login required.
- Good for product photography.
Steps to make an image transparent
Step 1: Visit Erase.bg.
Step 2: Upload your image. Click on the button to upload a photo, or drag and drop it directly into the website's design area.
Step 3: The AI-powered tool will automatically detect and make an image transparent instantly.
Step 4: Download your image. You can download the image as a PNG file, which supports transparency.
3. Photoroom
Photoroom allows you to remove the background and generate transparent PNGs. With the Photoroom, resize your image, add text to the photo, and change the background color all in one application.
Photoroom is especially useful for lightweight edits and removing the background from any product photos, making it popular among e-commerce sellers. The online tool offers special features to make an image transparent, and you won’t encounter any trouble with it. Just upload a photo of your choice and let it make its background transparent.
The tool removes backgrounds quickly and lets you add custom templates, shadows, overlays, even text, and much more. It’s fun and powerful, but not fully free if you need a clean and additional advantage.
Key features
- Fast processing.
- Free tier is available with limitations; premium unlocks full features.
- Resize your image, add text, and change color.
- Available for mobile app.
Steps to make an image transparent
Step 1: Visit the Photoroom website.
Step 2: Choose a photo. Pick the image that you want to add a transparent background to by clicking “Start from a photo.” Support all image dimensions. Your image format can be PNG or JPG.
Step 3: The tool automatically removes the background from your image, making it transparent. More editing options are available by clicking on “Edit in Photoroom,” like choosing another background color or resizing your image.
Step 4: Download your image. Users can create a Photoroom account to store their work and enjoy more photo editing options.
4. Remove.bg
Remove.bg is one of the most popular and accurate tools for making an image transparent using AI. Effortless, just drag and drop an image directly to its website, and you can paste its URL as well.
The free image transparent background maker can detect human figures, animals, houses, trees, and other objects. It offers a free trial with limited downloads, but full resolution or frequent use requires a paid plan. It’s quick, intuitive, and ideal for designers and e-commerce users.
Moreover, the interface is clean and easy to use, and it also offers plugins and an API for automation. It’s effective, but for high-resolution results, bulk processing, or professional use, you’ll need a paid plan.
Key features
- Simple drag-and-drop interface.
- Photoshop plugin and API automation.
- Fast processing.
- High-quality edge.
- Plugin and app options are available.
Steps to make an image transparent
Step 1: Visit Remove.bg.
Step 2: Upload an image or drag and drop it into the tool. Let Remove.bg work its magic and create a transparent background for you in around 5 seconds and 100% automatically.
Step 3: Now go ahead and hit Download, and there you have the result. Your image is perfectly cut out and ready to create incredible graphics, social media posts, adverts, and much more.
5. Fotor
Fotor offers an online background remove with free options, though high-resolution and advanced features may require a subscription. Fotor is an online editing tool that suits amateurs and professionals.
Whether you’re editing product photos for an online store, designing graphics for social media, or enhancing personal photographs, the tool provides flexibility and creative freedom.
With Fotor, users can easily make images transparent using advanced selection tools and automatic AI technology. Fotor gives a smooth, one-click background removal experience backed by AI. Depending on how complicated the image is, Fotor can accurately support WebP, PNG, and JPG formats.
Key features
- Remove or blur the background easily.
- High-resolution downloads supported.
- Includes additional design tools.
- Offers a wide range of editing and design tools beyond background removal.
Steps to make an image transparent
Step 1: Visit Fotor and upload your desired image to the background removal tool.
Step 2: Click on “Upload Image” or drag and drop your image here. Supported formats like JPG, JPEG, PNG, and WebP.
Step 3: Let Fotor work its magic and create a transparent background for you in around 5 seconds and 100% automatically.
Step 4: Download the result. Various other options are also available to change the background, change the background color, and blur the background according to your requirements.
6. Picsart
Another one instantly removes the background from your image and creates transparent photos right from your browser tab with Picsart’s online transparent background maker. With Picsart’s transparent background maker, it only takes a second.
The tool automatically removes the background from your photos, leaving you with a transparent PNG that’s versatile enough to be used on various background colors, patterns, or surfaces.
Users can create polished, transparent images for their e-commerce listings, landing pages, and ads. Simple images are quick, while complex edges may require manual touch-ups.
The tool is beginner-friendly, and the transparent background creator is no exception. Transparent images can be placed on any background, making them more versatile for use in design projects, social media, and websites.
Key features
- Easy to use.
- Quality result.
- No technical skill needed.
- Greater flexibility.
Steps to make an image transparent
Step 1: Visit Picsart Background Remover.
Step 2: Upload an image; just use the upload image button, and that’s it. Picsart will automatically make your image transparent.
Step 3: Save your transparent photo or select "Edit my Image" to tweak the final look.
7. Pixelcut
With the help of cutting-edge AI technology, Pixelcut creates transparent PNG pictures automatically, doing away with the need for human editing.
Pixelcut is marketed toward e-commerce sellers and creators offering automated background removal for polished product images. Pixelcut provides fast AI-driven background removal and can also generate replacement backgrounds.
This user-friendly tool allows you to turn the background of your photos transparent, perfect for personal projects, small businesses, and startups. Pixelcut is used by influencers and marketers.
Key features
- Excellent for product photos.
- Easy to use.
- Support batch processing.
- Cost-effective.
Steps to make an image transparent
Step 1: Visit Pixelcut or go to pixelcut background remove page.
Step 2: Click on “Upload Image” or drag and drop it or click the upload button to select it from your device.
Step 3: The tool AI will automatically analyze and make the image transparent.
Step 4: Download your transparent image.
8. Removal.ai
Removal.ai is an AI-powered tool for creating transparent images and background removal, and offers a free trial, but is mainly a paid service. The name implies that it utilizes state-of-the-art artificial intelligence to remove backgrounds from images and create transparent versions.
It is very easy to use; you can either load an image from your system to Removal.ai or submit its URL. While the transparent photo maker is quite advanced, it provides limited free credits, and further use requires purchasing a paid plan.
Whether you’re a seasoned photographer, a creative graphic designer, an innovative marketer, or running a dynamic e-commerce store, Removal.ai will seamlessly adapt to your specific needs.
Key features
- Very easy to use.
- Fast processing.
- Neat, clear, and smooth cutout edges.
- Reliable, efficient, and scalable.
Steps to make an image transparent
Step 1: Visit Removal.ai.
Step 2: Click on "Upload your Image", drop an image, or paste the image you want to make transparent using Ctrl+V.
Step 3: The tool AI will automatically analyze and make the image transparent.
Step 4: Download your transparent image.
FAQs
Upload your image to a background remover (e.g., Erase.bg or Pixelbin.io), wait for the cutout, then download as PNG to preserve transparency.
The advantage of PNG images is that they have the ability for transparency. PNG is an image file type that allows you to have no background color. PNG supports full alpha transparency; parts of an image can be fully or partially transparent.
PNG and WebP support full alpha transparency. GIF supports only 1-bit transparency. JPG does not support transparency.
To remove the background from a logo, upload the logo image to an online background remover, such as Erase.bg or Pixelbin.io. The tool will automatically remove the background and give you a transparent logo that you can download in seconds. Some tools require login/credits to export HD quality files.
To adjust the transparency of the image, select image >Format > Format Options > Adjustments > transparency slider. You can also adjust brightness and contrast in the same panel, but only the transparency slider affects opacity.
Yes, there are free AI tools, Erase.bg, and Pixelbin.io that remove backgrounds without Photoshop; however, most offer limited free credits or low-resolution exports; paid plans unlock HD and batch processing.
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