How to remove the background from a photo in four steps

Removing a background used to mean tracing around a subject by hand. Today an AI model can find the subject for you, and you only need to check the edges. Here is the quick way to do it with ClearCut.

1. Pick a good photo

The result is only as good as the source. A sharp photo where the subject stands out from what is behind it will cut out most cleanly. Our tips for cleaner cutouts explain what to look for.

2. Add your image

Drop the file onto the page, choose it from your device, or paste it from your clipboard. PNG, JPG, and WebP all work. Very large images are scaled down to 2400 pixels on the long side so editing stays smooth.

3. Remove the background

Select Remove background (AI). The first time you do this, your browser downloads the model, which is about 80 MB. It is kept afterwards, so later images start much faster. Your image never leaves your device.

4. Fine-tune and download

Zoom in on the edges. If part of the subject is missing, use the Restore brush to paint it back. If a piece of background is left, use Erase. The Shrink edge and Soften edge sliders remove halos and smooth the outline. Preview the cutout on white, black, or a color, then select Download PNG.