Editing the background of a photo is no longer a complex task requiring expensive software or advanced skills. Thanks to the iPhone’s built-in features and third-party apps, you can now transform your photos quickly and easily. Whether you want to blur the background, replace it, or simply clean it up, your iPhone offers various tools to make these adjustments, and the best part? You don’t need a computer or professional software.
Why Editing Backgrounds on iPhone Matters
Editing the background of a photo can dramatically change its look. Sometimes, a stunning photo can be ruined by a distracting background. Maybe your subject is perfect, but the background doesn’t match the vibe you want. With the right tools on your iPhone, you can remove, replace, or blur the background to better highlight your subject. This is especially helpful for content creators, business owners, or anyone who loves sharing photos online.
Tools You Can Use to Edit Backgrounds on iPhone
There are a few great options available to help you edit backgrounds without leaving your iPhone. These tools range from the native iOS features to powerful third-party apps. Let’s look at them.
1. Using the iPhone’s Native Features
The iPhone’s built-in photo editor is a powerful tool, especially for quick edits. While it doesn’t offer the complete background-removal features found in professional editing software, it can still do quite a bit.
Photo Editor in the Photos App
- Blurring Background: The Photos app offers some editing tools that can help blur the background and make your subject pop. This effect is available under the “Portrait” mode or with the “Edit” feature after taking a photo.
- Adjusting Focus: You can also adjust the focus point, which can help blur the background in portraits.
These built-in features are quick and convenient, making them perfect for basic edits on the go.
2. Using the iPhone’s Markup Tool
If you need to quickly clean up the edges or remove something distracting from your background, the Markup tool can come in handy. Although it’s not designed specifically for background edits, you can use it creatively to adjust certain elements.
How to Use Markup:
- Open the photo in your Photos app.
- Tap “Edit” and select the “Markup” option.
- Use the pen tool to draw over areas you want to remove or change, such as erasing marks or covering small distractions.
This won’t replace your background but can help clean up any minor issues.
Third-Party Apps for Editing Backgrounds
While the iPhone’s native tools are great for quick fixes, you may want something with more advanced features. Luckily, there are plenty of third-party apps designed specifically to help you edit backgrounds with ease.
1. Adobe Photoshop Express
Adobe Photoshop Express is a simplified version of the famous Photoshop program, available right on your iPhone. It offers a range of background editing tools that can do much more than just crop and adjust your images.
Key Features:
- Background Removal: One of the standout features is the automatic background removal. You can remove the background with just a few taps and replace it with a new image or solid color.
- Blur Effects: The app also allows you to apply blur to the background, which is great for portraits or product photos.
- Cut-Out Tool: If you want to manually cut out the subject and paste it on a different background, this tool is your friend.
2. Canva
Canva is well-known for creating social media content, but it also includes powerful background editing features. While it’s not as professional as Photoshop, it is user-friendly and perfect for quick edits.
Key Features:
- Background Remover: Canva’s Pro version offers an automatic background removal tool that works wonders, even with complex backgrounds.
- Custom Backgrounds: After removing a background, you can choose from a library of images or upload your own to place behind your subject.
- Blur and Adjustments: Canva also lets you blur the background and apply other adjustments like brightness, contrast, and saturation.
3. Background Eraser
For those who want a more straightforward and specialized tool, Background Eraser is a great option. It’s a no-frills app focused purely on removing backgrounds.
Key Features:
- Automatic and Manual Background Removal: This app provides both an automatic and manual mode for erasing the background, giving you full control.
- Save Transparent Images: After erasing the background, you can save the image with a transparent background, making it easy to add any new background you choose.
4. PicsArt
PicsArt is another popular app for creative photo edits, and it includes a strong background editing feature. It’s particularly known for its easy-to-use interface and variety of effects.
Key Features:
- Background Removal: Similar to other apps, PicsArt offers an automatic background removal tool.
- Custom Backgrounds: You can insert your own image as the new background or choose from PicsArt’s library of backgrounds.
- Effects and Stickers: Apart from background editing, PicsArt lets you add fun effects, stickers, and text to your photos.
5. Superimpose X
Superimpose X is a more professional-grade app that specializes in blending photos together. It’s perfect for removing backgrounds and creating seamless compositions.
Key Features:
- Precision Editing: You can manually fine-tune the edges after removing the background for a cleaner finish.
- Layering: Superimpose X allows you to layer multiple images, which is ideal for replacing the background with a different image or effect.
- Masking Tools: The app comes with masking tools that allow for more precise cuts around your subject, resulting in better background removal.
Tips for Editing Backgrounds on iPhone
When it comes to editing backgrounds, having the right tools is only half the battle. To get the best results, here are some helpful tips.
1. Use Portrait Mode for Better Depth Effect
If you’re taking photos that require background blur, make sure to use Portrait mode. This mode uses the iPhone’s camera to create a depth effect, which will make the background naturally blur, putting more focus on your subject.
2. Mind the Edges
When removing backgrounds, it’s important to pay attention to the edges of your subject. A clean edge will make your edits look more realistic. If necessary, use a manual cut tool (available in apps like Photoshop Express and Superimpose X) to refine these areas.
3. Avoid Overcomplicating Backgrounds
If you’re adding a new background, keep it simple. Overcomplicated backgrounds can take away from the subject of your photo. Choose backgrounds that complement your subject and don’t distract from it.
4. Use High-Quality Images
The better the quality of the original photo, the better the end result will be after editing. Try to take clear, well-lit photos to begin with. It’ll make the process of editing the background much easier.
Final Thoughts
Editing backgrounds on your iPhone has never been easier, thanks to the variety of apps and tools available. Whether you’re looking to blur your background for a more professional look, remove it entirely, or replace it with something more fitting, there’s an app that can help. With the iPhone’s built-in features and powerful third-party apps like Adobe Photoshop Express, Canva, and PicsArt, you can create stunning photos in just a few simple steps.
As with any editing tool, practice makes perfect. So, experiment with different apps and techniques to find the best method for your needs. Whether you’re a casual photographer or a social media influencer, these tips and tools will help you create eye-catching, professional-looking photos right from your iPhone.