Efficient methods for cutting out fireworks in Photoshop

Clipping a firework in Photoshop can be a challenging task, especially when the integrated AI does not deliver the desired results. In this tutorial, I will show you several efficient methods to quickly and accurately clip a firework. These techniques are not limited to fireworks only but can also be applied to many other objects. Let's dive right in and learn how to achieve impressive clippings!

Main Insights

• The integrated AI in Photoshop may fail when clipping fireworks.
• There are several manual methods that are more effective.
• Working with layer masks and channels significantly improves the results.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Select the original image

First, you need a suitable image showing a firework. Load the image into Photoshop and check if it has the necessary quality to achieve a nice clipping result.

Step 2: Use the selection tool

Start with one of the selection tools. Choose Menu > Selection > Subject. Click on the area of the firework to create a rough selection. This is the first step in preparing the desired area.

Step 3: Refine edges

After creating a rough selection, go to "Selection" and choose "Select and Mask". Here, you can refine the edges of your selected area. Make sure to adjust the parameters to achieve the best result.

Step 4: Invert selection and create layer mask

After defining the edges, create a layer mask by inverting the selection (with the key combination Shift + Ctrl + I) and then clicking on the mask icon in the layer palette. This will separate the firework from the background.

Step 5: Make fine adjustments

Take the mask and make further adjustments. You can use brush tools to improve the edges or remove unwanted areas. With a soft brush, you can refine transitions and enhance the result. The result, however, is not very convincing.

Using the color range

An alternative method is to work via "Selection" and then "Color Range". Select the firework by dragging the "Color Tolerance" slider to the desired range. This allows you to selectively choose colors and create a layer mask.

Using channels for clipping

You can also use channels to clip the firework. Check which channel (Red, Green, or Blue) provides the highest contrast and select that channel. Hold the Ctrl key and click on the channel to create a selection. Then go to the layer mask.

Using smart objects

Consider converting the clipped layer into a smart object. Right-click on the layer and choose "Convert to Smart Object". This allows you to change the size anytime without affecting the image quality.

Using the eraser tool

If you want to work with the background eraser, select the eraser tool and make sure you are using the correct mode (background eraser). This is helpful for removing distracting backgrounds but requires that the background is no longer needed.

Try AI methods

If needed, you can also use the AI functions in Photoshop to generate additional fireworks. To do this, create a new layer and use the commands in the Photoshop CC version to create new impressions of a fireworks display.

Comparison of the results

Make sure to compare the results of your isolation with the AI-generated images. Sometimes manual isolation can deliver higher quality results, especially with complex subjects like fireworks.

I significantly prefer the version without AI:

Summary

In this tutorial, I have shown you how to efficiently isolate fireworks in Photoshop. You have learned different methods, from using selection tools to using layer masks and the possibilities of AI in Photoshop. Practice these techniques and find out which one you like best.