Complex Selection / Refine Edge (Select & Mask interface)

File to download:
Visconti-Portrait.CR2.zip

Hair Selection:

1. Open through Bridge
   Optional: Tonal Setting Adjustments (in Camera RAW)
2. Importing into Photoshop (Choose Raster)
3. In Photoshop
   Layer should be Rasterized (if not already)
   Quick Select > Select Subject
   Add to selection as needed
4. Select & Mask
   Refine Edge Brush (toolbox on the left)
   Brush - Size larger, only paint along areas where the grey background can be seen
5. *OPTIONAL: Decontaminate Colors - 100%
   (this is tricky, because you have to output as New Layer and not Mask)
6. Output As: New layer with layer mask (unless you decontaminate colors)
7. Place a Solid Fill Color (any color) behind the new selected layer
   When satisfied with results, right-click on layer mask, apply layer mask
   If not satisfied, you can try touching up the MASK by option/clicking on it. This will isolate the mask. You can then paint on it or increase contrast with a destructive Levels ⌘ L

 

Portrait Photo: © Visconti