Do you have a photo with a person you want to keep in the picture but need to remove the background or other unwanted elements? Cropping a person from a photo on Mac is a simple process using the built-in Photos app. With just a few clicks, you can isolate the person in the photo and save the cropped image as a new file. In this article, we will guide you through the steps involved in cropping a person from a photo on Mac, ensuring a clean and precise result.
Before you begin, it’s important to prepare your photo for cropping. Open the photo in the Photos app, and if necessary, rotate or adjust the image to ensure that the person you want to crop is positioned correctly. You can use the Crop tool to adjust the overall dimensions of the photo, or the Rotate tool to change the orientation. Once you’re satisfied with the positioning and orientation of the person, you can proceed with the cropping process.
To crop the person from the photo, select the Crop tool from the toolbar at the top of the Photos window. Alternatively, you can press the “C” key on your keyboard to quickly access the Crop tool. A rectangular crop frame will appear over the photo. Position the crop frame around the person you want to keep, making sure to include the entire area you want to preserve. You can adjust the size and position of the crop frame by dragging the handles on the edges or corners. When you’re happy with the selection, click the “Crop” button in the toolbar to apply the changes and save the cropped image as a new file.
The Basics of Cropping
Image cropping is a fundamental editing technique for refining and isolating specific sections of a photograph. By cropping, you can alter the composition, remove distractions, and highlight important elements within your image. Here’s a detailed guide to the basics of cropping:
Fundamentals of Cropping
1. Define the Focal Point: Before you begin cropping, determine the main subject or area of interest in your image. This focal point should be the centerpiece of your final cropped image. Consider the composition, lighting, and overall impact of the different cropping options.
2. Set Crop Boundaries: Select the cropping tool or feature within your photo editing software. Drag and adjust the handles or bounding box around the image to define the rectangular or square area you want to keep. Fine-tune the boundaries to precisely isolate your focal point.
3. Maintain Aspect Ratio: When cropping, pay attention to the aspect ratio of the original image. This refers to the ratio of width to height. Maintaining the original aspect ratio ensures that your cropped image retains its intended proportions and does not become distorted or stretched.
4. Consider Cropping Options: Different photo editing software offer various cropping presets and options. Experiment with the preset aspect ratios and shapes to see what best suits your image and intended purpose. You can also crop freely by manually adjusting the handles or enter specific dimensions for a precise crop.
5. Refine the Crop: After initial cropping, you may need to fine-tune your selection. Zoom in to examine the edges and make adjustments to remove any unwanted elements or refine the composition. Some editing tools provide options for feathering or blending the edges of the cropped area.
6. Preview and Save: Before finalizing your crop, preview the changes to ensure you’re satisfied with the result. Consider the overall impact on the image’s composition, story, and intended use. Once you’re happy with the crop, save the edited image in your desired format.
Using Preview
Preview is a versatile image editing app built into macOS, and it can be used to crop a person from a photo with ease. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Open the photo in Preview.
2. Select the crop tool from the toolbar or press “C” on your keyboard. This will bring up a rectangular crop frame that you can resize and position over the person you want to crop.
- To resize the crop frame, click and drag the handles on the sides or corners of the frame.
- To move the crop frame, click and drag the frame itself.
- To maintain the aspect ratio of the crop frame, hold down the “Shift” key while resizing.
3. Once you’re satisfied with the crop selection, click “Crop” in the toolbar.
4. Preview will crop the photo and show you the cropped image. You can then save the cropped image by clicking “File” > “Export” and choosing a location and file format.
Here’s a table summarizing the steps:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Open the photo in Preview. |
| 2 | Select the crop tool from the toolbar or press “C” on your keyboard. |
| 3 | Resize and position the crop frame over the person you want to crop. |
| 4 | Click “Crop” in the toolbar. |
| 5 | Save the cropped image by clicking “File” > “Export”. |
Utilizing Photos App
The Photos app is a versatile tool for managing and editing photos on Mac. It offers a user-friendly interface with intuitive cropping features. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cropping a person from a photo using the Photos app:
- Open the Photos app and locate the photo you want to crop.
- Click on the photo to open it in the editing mode.
- Click on the “Crop” button located in the toolbar at the top of the screen.
- **Aspect Ratio:** Select a specific aspect ratio from the drop-down menu, such as 1:1 (square), 16:9 (landscape), or 4:3 (portrait).
- **Rotate:** Rotate the crop area by clicking on the arrow buttons or dragging the rotation handle.
- **Flip:** Mirror the crop area along the vertical or horizontal axis.
- **Straighten:** Adjust the crop area to correct any tilt or distortion in the photo.
- Layer Masks: You can create multiple masks and stack them to achieve complex selections. This is useful for combining different brushes or applying different effects to different parts of the image.
- Color Masks: Select specific colors in the image and create masks based on those selections. This is helpful for isolating objects of a particular color.
- Gradient Masks: Create smooth transitions from one selection to another using gradient masks. This is useful for creating vignettes or fading out edges.
- Adjust Mask Properties: Double-click on a mask layer in the "Masks" tab to adjust its properties, such as opacity, blending mode, and color.
- Mask Interpolation: When resizing the image, Photos interpolates the masks to ensure they remain accurate. This is important for maintaining the integrity of the selection.
- Free
- Square
- 3:2
- 4:3
- 16:9
- 2:1
- 3:1
- 4:1
- 5:1
- 7:1
Advanced Cropping Options:
In addition to the basic cropping tools, the Photos app provides advanced options for precise cropping:
| Tool | Function |
|---|---|
| Aspect Ratio | Constrains the crop area to a specific ratio |
| Rotate | Rotates the crop area |
| Flip | Mirrors the crop area |
| Straighten | Corrects tilt or distortion |
By utilizing the advanced cropping options in the Photos app, you can crop a person from a photo with precision and accuracy.
Advanced Cropping with Pixelmator Pro
Pixelmator Pro offers advanced cropping tools that provide precise control over the cropping process.
Refine Edges
Pixelmator Pro allows you to refine the edges of your crop using the “Edge Feathering” slider. This slider controls how smoothly the edges blend with the surrounding background, allowing you to create natural-looking transitions.
Transform Cropped Area
After cropping, you can transform the cropped area by applying various adjustments. Use the “Transform” tools to resize, rotate, flip, or skew the cropped area. This flexibility enables you to fine-tune the composition and ensure a perfect fit.
Nondestructive Cropping
One of the unique features of Pixelmator Pro is its nondestructive cropping. When you crop an image in Pixelmator Pro, the original image remains intact. This allows you to experiment with different crop sizes and compositions without permanently altering the original file.
| Edge Feathering | Controls the smoothness of the transition between the cropped area and the background. |
|---|---|
| Transform | Allows you to adjust the size, rotation, and skew of the cropped area. |
| Nondestructive Cropping | Preserves the original image, allowing you to revert to the uncropped version at any time. |
Refining Selections with Masks
Masks provide a powerful tool for refining selections and creating precise cutouts. The Masks palette in the Photos app allows you to create and edit masks using various tools and techniques.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to using masks to refine selections:
1. Create a Mask
To create a mask, click on the “Masks” button in the Photos app toolbar. A new “Mask” tab will appear in the sidebar.
2. Select a Brush
Choose a brush from the “Brushes” panel on the left side of the “Mask” tab. Different brush types are available, each with its own properties.
3. Paint on the Mask
Use the brush to paint over the areas you want to keep or discard in the selection. Black paint removes areas, while white paint restores them.
4. Use the Refine Mask Tools
The “Refine Mask” tools in the “Mask” tab allow you to fine-tune the mask. The “Edge Feather” slider blurs the edges of the mask, while the “Refine” brush lets you manually adjust the mask boundaries.
5. Advanced Masking Techniques
Cropping for Specific Aspect Ratios
If you have a specific aspect ratio in mind for your cropped image, you can use the Crop Tool’s Aspect Ratio options. Below the Crop Tool’s toolbar, click on the Aspect Ratio drop-down menu to select from a variety of preset aspect ratios, including:
Custom Aspect Ratios
If you don’t find the aspect ratio you need in the preset options, you can create a custom aspect ratio by entering the desired width and height values in the Aspect Ratio fields.
| Width | Height |
|---|---|
| 1200 | 675 |
This will create a custom aspect ratio of 1200:675, which is a popular banner ad size.
Removing Backgrounds Completely
Take your photo editing a step further by removing the background entirely, leaving you with a perfectly isolated subject. Here’s how to achieve a clean and professional-looking cut-out:
1. Select the Subject with Quick Selection Tool
Use the Quick Selection Tool to quickly outline the person you want to isolate. Click and drag around the edges to refine the selection.
2. Refine the Selection with Refine Edge Brush
Switch to the Refine Edge Brush and paint along the subject’s edges to capture any missed details. Adjust the settings to fine-tune the selection.
3. Create a Layer Mask
Convert the selection into a layer mask by clicking the “Add Layer Mask” button. This creates a transparency mask that conceals the background.
4. Paint over the Background with Black
Select the Brush Tool and set the color to black. Paint over the background to remove it completely. The layer mask will ensure that the foreground remains intact.
5. Save the Isolated Image
Once the background is removed, you can save the isolated subject as a separate image. Right-click on the layer mask and choose “Layer via Copy” to create a new layer with the cutout.
6. Adjust the Contrast and Brightness
Optionally, you can adjust the contrast and brightness of the cutout to enhance its visibility. Use the Curves or Levels adjustment tools.
7. Customize the Background
If desired, you can add a new background to the isolated subject. Place a new image below the cutout layer and set the blending mode to “Normal” or “Multiply” for a realistic effect.
Using Preview
Preview, the built-in image viewer on macOS, offers a simple method for cropping images. Open the image in Preview and select “Crop” from the “Tools” menu. Drag the handles to adjust the crop area, and click “Done” to apply the crop.
Using Photos
Photos, the default image management app on macOS, provides more advanced cropping options. Open the image in Photos and click the “Crop” tool in the toolbar. Drag the edges and corners of the crop rectangle to adjust the selection. You can also use the “Rotate” and “Straighten” tools to fine-tune the crop.
Using Third-Party Software
There are numerous third-party image editing software available for macOS, such as Photoshop, GIMP, and Pixelmator. These programs offer a wider range of cropping tools and features. However, they may require a learning curve to master.
Tips for Enhancing Cropped Images
Sharpen the Image
Cropping an image can reduce its sharpness. To restore the image’s detail, apply a sharpening filter. In Preview, select “Effects” > “Sharpen.” In Photos, click the “Adjust” button and adjust the “Sharpness” slider.
Adjust the Contrast
Cropping can alter the image’s contrast. Use adjustment tools to fine-tune the contrast levels. In Preview, select “Effects” > “Adjust Contrast.” In Photos, adjust the “Contrast” slider in the “Adjust” menu.
Remove Red Eye
If the subject’s eyes appear red in the cropped image, use a red-eye correction tool. In Preview, select “Tools” > “Adjust Color” > “Remove Red Eye.” In Photos, click the “Adjust” button and use the “Red Eye” brush to remove the red tint.
Resize the Image
After cropping, the image may need to be resized for a specific purpose. In Preview, select “Tools” > “Adjust Size.” In Photos, click the “Edit” button and select “Resize.” Adjust the dimensions to fit your desired size.
Save in High Quality
When saving the cropped image, choose a high-quality file format to preserve its sharpness and detail. In Preview, select “File” > “Export.” In Photos, click the “File” menu and choose “Export.” Choose a file format such as TIFF or PNG and adjust the quality settings.
Best Practices for Digital Cropping
To achieve optimal results when cropping a person from a photo on Mac, it’s essential to follow these best practices:
1. Use a High-Resolution Image
Start with an image with a high resolution to maintain clarity and detail after cropping.
2. Choose the Right Aspect Ratio
Select an aspect ratio that complements your intended use, such as 16:9 for social media or 3:2 for printing.
3. Isolate the Subject
Crop as closely as possible to the person you want to isolate, removing any unnecessary background.
4. Center the Subject
Position the person in the center of the frame for a balanced and visually appealing result.
5. Avoid Cropping Body Parts
Ensure that the crop doesn’t cut off any important body parts, such as the head or feet.
6. Use a Sharp Crop
Select a crisp and defined crop to eliminate any blurred or pixelated edges.
7. Adjust Exposure and Contrast
Fine-tune the exposure and contrast of the cropped image to enhance its overall appearance.
8. Remove Red-Eye
If necessary, use a tool to remove any red-eye from the person’s eyes.
9. Save in a Lossless Format
Save the cropped image in a lossless format, such as PNG or TIFF, to preserve its original quality.
10. Consider the following additional tips for professional-looking crops:
| Tip |
|---|
| Use the “Aspect Ratio” tool to constrain the crop to a specific ratio. |
| Apply the “Feather” effect to soften the edges of the crop for a more natural look. |
| Use the “Straighten” tool to correct any tilted images before cropping. |
| Experiment with different crop sizes to find the optimal composition. |
| Crop multiple times to create variations of the same image. |
How to Crop a Person from a Photo on Mac
To crop a person from a photo on a Mac, follow these steps:
1.
Open the photo in the Photos app.
2.
Click on the “Edit” button.
3.
Click on the “Crop” button.
4.
Drag the corners of the crop box to select the area of the photo that you want to keep.
5.
Click on the “Done” button.
To crop a person from a photo in a more precise way, you can use the following steps:
1.
Open the photo in the Preview app.
2.
Select the “Tools” menu.
3.
Select the “Adjust Size” option.
4.
In the “Adjust Size” dialog box, enter the desired width and height for the cropped image.
5.
Click on the “OK” button.
People Also Ask About How to Crop a Person from a Photo on Mac
How do I crop a person from a photo on Mac without losing quality?
To crop a person from a photo on Mac without losing quality, you can use the following steps:
1.
Open the photo in the Photos app.
2.
Click on the “Edit” button.
3.
Click on the “Crop” button.
4.
Drag the corners of the crop box to select the area of the photo that you want to keep.
5.
Click on the “Done” button.
6.
Click on the “File” menu.
7.
Select the “Export” option.
8.
In the “Export” dialog box, select the “Original” option from the “Format” drop-down menu.
9.
Click on the “Export” button.
How do I crop a person from a photo on Mac using the command line?
To crop a person from a photo on Mac using the command line, you can use the following steps:
1.
Open a Terminal window.
2.
Type the following command:
“`
sips -c “crop height width originX originY” input.jpg output.jpg
“`
3.
Press the Enter key.
4.
Replace “height”, “width”, “originX”, and “originY” with the desired values.
5.
Replace “input.jpg” with the path to the input photo.
6.
Replace “output.jpg” with the path to the output photo.
How do I crop a person from a photo on Mac using Photoshop?
To crop a person from a photo on Mac using Photoshop, you can use the following steps:
1.
Open the photo in Photoshop.
2.
Select the “Crop Tool” from the toolbar.
3.
Drag the corners of the crop box to select the area of the photo that you want to keep.
4.
Press the Enter key.
