There are two types of image background removal apps available for MAC: built-in applications in the Mac system and third-party applications. Built-in apps are easy to use but suitable for simple background removal. You need to use third-party apps, which contain powerful features and functions to erase complex backdrops. This article covers some of the best photo background removal apps for Mac.
Preview App
This pre-installed application is very simple to use. It is mainly used for image viewing and PDF reading. However, you can use the Instant Alpha tool on this software for erasing a simple backdrop from a picture.
Pros
- User-friendly interface
- No installation needed
Cons
- Not the best choice for complex photo removal
- Only basic features
How to Use Preview App as a Background Removal App on Mac?
Step 01: Open the image in the Preview software.
Step 02: Select View > Show Markup Toolbar Instant > Instant Alpha.
Step 03: Choose the area where you want to remove the background automatically.
Step 04: If you want to remove specific areas of the image background manually, use the lasso or rectangular selection tool.
Step 05: Hit the Delete key to erase parts of the backdrop.
Step 06: If you want only to keep the selected portions, select Edit > Invert Selection. Finally, Press the Delete button.
Step 07: Repeat this process several times until you achieve a perfect result.
Keynote App
This is mainly a presentation software application used for creating and delivering polished presentations with different visuals and texts.
However, you can use this built-in app to erase a backdrop from a picture.
Pros
- Simple interface
- Easy collaboration
Cons
- Limited to basic features
- Can’t remove complex background objects
How to Use Keynote App as a Background Removal App on Mac?
Step 01: Open the image in the Keynote software.
Step 02: Navigate to the Format sidebar and tap on the Image tab.
Step 03: Select the “Remove Background” option.
Step 04: Choose the area where you want to remove the background automatically.
Step 05: Hit the Delete key to erase parts of the backdrop.
Photos App
If you want a more straightforward image background removal, the default Photos app comes in handy. However, your iOS system must be 16 or the latest version. The process is also called the Ventura system.
Pros
- Built-in system
- Quick background removal
Cons
- Lack of manual controlling
- Not good for complex background removal
How to Use Photos App as a Background Removal App on Mac?
Step 01: Choose an image that you want to erase a backdrop from the Photos app.
Step 02: Right-click on the photo and select the “Copy Subject” option. It will isolate the main subject from the background.
Step 03: Now, paste it anywhere, like a third-party software, notepad, or email.
GIMP
If you are looking for a powerful and free image editing app for easy background removal, GIMP is a perfect choice for MAC users.
This feature-packed image editor comes with many user-friendly features to handle complicated background objects.
Pros
- Free to use
- Extensive toolset
Cons
- Need a few hours to learn the functions
How to Use GIMP App as a Background Removal App on Mac?
Step 01: Navigate to the tool icon in the Toolbox and choose Paths Tool. The shortcut key is ‘B.’
Step 02: Use the tool to place points on the subject and connect all points to make an aligned path.
Step 03: Once you create a perfect path, right-click on it and choose Select > From Path from the drop-down lists. It will draw a selection.
Step 04: Press “Command + I” from the keyboard panel to invert the current selection.
Step 05: Finally, hit the ‘Delete’ button from the keyboard panel to remove the background. The main subject will be visible with a transparent backdrop.
Conclusion
We have reviewed both built-in and third-party applications to erase backdrops from an object on an Apple Macintosh. Before choosing a particular option, determine the type of image subject it has. If it is simple, go for Preview, Keynote, or Photos app. When you need to use manual image background removal techniques, use third-party apps like GIMP, Adobe Photoshop, etc. Now, you know some of the best photo background removal apps for Mac.
