Clipping path is a well-known Photoshop technique in the world of photo editing. People often compare it with background removal, an umbrella Photoshop technique that includes different ways of removing a background from a photo to make it more presentable for business use. But, what most people don’t know is that background removal is an essential aspect of a clipping path service.
Let’s explore how!
What Is Clipping Path?
Clipping path is a widely recognized Photoshop feature that cuts any particular object or part from an entire image. The tool used in a clipping path is known as a pen tool. As the name suggests, it works like a pen, draws a vector path around the object you need to remove, and joins the last and first points of the path. It’s how the tool separates the article from the image background.
Then, you can use the item separately against different backdrops. This way, you can adjust the color, enhance the article, apply the shadow effect, do whatever you want with the object, and get rid of the background.
When Do You Need to Use Clipping Path
The clipping path method is needed in the following scenarios:
- You need to remove the image background and add the clipped object to another background
- To prepare images for a fashion industry catalog with white backgrounds to enhance the product features
- When you need to adjust a specific portion of an image
- You require a pristine white background in a product photo
- When you need to retouch high-end photos
Types of Clipping Paths
Clipping paths can be divided into three distinct types:
Simple Clipping Path
A simple clipping path is for curved objects with holes, such as watches, shoes, earrings, cameras, chairs, T-shirts, etc. There are more curves and anchor points in such a clipping path than in a basic path.
Compound Clipping Path
It is applied to items with different compounds and basic shapes with several curves.
Complex Clipping Path
This service is provided for intricate photos that require masterful use of the pen tool to cut out an object from a background.
Is Background Removal the Same as Clipping Path?
No, there are some differences between the clipping path and background removal. The former refers to creating a skeleton around an object to cut it out. The discarded background is then used in another photo or saved for further editing, while you can place the article against a white background for various purposes.
On the flip side, background removal refers to removing everything in the photo except the centerpiece object. While the output is the same, the two processes work differently and might require different tools.
For the clipping path method, you need to create a vector path. Most professional clipping path companies use the Pen Tool on Adobe Photoshop for removing the object from the background. You cannot use another tool to create a beautiful and soft vector image. On the other hand, you can use other software tools separately or in tandem with the pen tool for background removal.
So, to put it simply, background removal is a part of the clipping path technique, but the clipping path does not necessarily have to be a part of background removal. There are old-school background removal methods, such as Paint and ghost mannequin services. You can also use other tools in Photoshop.
However, suppose you want to prepare photographs for product displays on eCommerce websites, fashion websites, furniture apps, websites, and more.
In that case, it’s always best to choose the clipping path method as it delivers a fine image without any distractions. You end up with a cleaner, simpler look that allows the viewer to notice the object and its distinct features. Thanks to a white background, the article appears sharper and brighter.
The Bottom Line
So, to answer the question, “Is background removal a part of clipping path services,” it is a critical part of the process. After all, the clipping path technique is all about separating the background from the object you need to use. So, your chosen clipping path company can offer background removal services as part of its clipping path package.
