Cutting Out

[scoff]

What is the best and most effective way to cut out a subject from a shot?

If I use green screen its all good, but if not I'm struggling.

Help!!

thanks

 

[Kerioak]

I don't think there is really a "best" way as different images can call for different methods but my favourite is to use a mask

 

[scoff]

Thanks

Is there a resource anywhere showing how to use a 'mask' to this end?

Cheers

 

[swanseamale47]

As Kerioak say different ways will suit different subjects, for simply smooth shapes I tend to use the pen tool to make a path and use that as the basis for my selection, but for things like hair I'll often use photoshops own masking (much improved in CS5) or a combination of several things.
Check out here for lots of videos. http://www.russellbrown.com/tips_tech.html

 

[scoff]

Thats Superb Wayne, thanks

 

[Photodiva]

Hi. As has been said, lots of ways depending on what you want to cut out. For people, especially difficult stuff like hair, I strongly recommend "Photoshop masking and compositing" by Katrin Eismann and learn about channel masks. CS5 has some neat assistance in its 'refine edge' command, not unlike the old 'extract' feature which is now defunct in the newer versions of Photoshop.

 

[scoff]

Thanks