This guide explains how to make the background of an image transparent using GIMP, with the recommended Layer Mask method.
This approach is non-destructive, meaning you can refine the transparency later without losing original pixels.

1. Open the Image and Add Transparency

  1. Launch GIMP and open your image.
  2. In the Layers panel (usually on the right), right-click your image layer.
  3. Select Add Alpha Channel.

    Without an alpha channel, transparency won’t be visible.

2. Select the Background

Choose a selection tool depending on the background type:

  • Fuzzy Select Tool (Magic Wand): Click the background to select it. Adjust the threshold if necessary.
  • Select by Color Tool: Good for single-color backgrounds.
  • Free Select (Lasso) Tool: Manually outline the subject if the background is complex.

3. Invert the Selection

  • Go to Select → Invert so the subject is selected instead of the background.

4. Add a Layer Mask

  1. Right-click the image layer → Add Layer Mask.
  2. In the dialog, choose Selection.
  3. The mask will hide the background while keeping the subject visible.

5. Refine the Mask

  • Use a black brush on the mask to hide more areas.
  • Use a white brush to reveal parts you want to keep.
  • Apply Select → Feather, Blur, or paint directly to smooth edges.

6. Save with Transparency

  1. Go to File → Export As.
  2. Choose PNG (supports transparency).

    Avoid JPEG, since it does not support transparency.

  3. Click Export and confirm settings.

✅ Using a Layer Mask makes it easy to refine transparency at any time, giving cleaner results, especially for images with complex edges like hair or fur. “””

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