A cutout is an image editing technique in which a specific object – usually a product, a person, or an animal – is cleanly separated from the background. The goal is to isolate the subject, displaying it against a transparent or white background. This is commonly used in advertising, e-commerce, or photography to focus solely on the subject and avoid distractions.
Technically, the cutout is achieved using various methods, depending on the complexity of the subject. For simple objects with clear edges, the background can be removed, for example, using a drawing tool or an automatic selection. For more complex subjects, such as hair or fine details, more elaborate techniques like working with masks, channels, or the pen tool method (e.g., in Photoshop) are employed.
Cutouts allow for flexible use of an object in various contexts – such as on flyers, websites, or in catalogs. This is particularly standard in product photography: a shoe, a mobile phone, or a piece of furniture is cut out so that it can be presented on any background.
The quality of a cutout greatly depends on how cleanly and precisely the separation from the background is done. A poor cutout appears unprofessional – for example, due to frayed edges, color fringing, or cut-off details.
In summary:
A cutout isolates an image object, makes it versatile for use, and ensures that the focus remains entirely on the subject. It is a central element in professional image editing and visual communication.