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How do I remove the background from a product photo?

Recent iPhones can lift a subject off its background in the Photos app. For best results, shoot on a plain background in good light, then send us the original too.

Product photos on a clean white or transparent background look tidy in a store or catalog. Many phones and photo apps can now cut the subject out for you. The cleaner the original photo, the cleaner the cutout.

What you need

  • An iPhone XS, iPhone XR or newer on iOS 16 or later, or a photo app with a background removal tool.
  • A few minutes per photo.

Steps on an iPhone

Official guide: https://support.apple.com/en-us/102460

  1. Open the product photo in the Photos app.
  2. Touch and hold the product until a glowing outline appears around it.
  3. Let go, then choose Copy or Share.
  4. Paste the cutout into a note or message, or share it to email or AirDrop.
  5. Send us the cutout and the original photo.

Get a better cutout

  • Shoot on a plain background that contrasts with the product, such as a white sheet or poster board.
  • Use soft, even light to avoid hard shadows.
  • Keep the whole product in the frame with a little space around it.
  • Photograph every product from the same angle and distance so a store page looks consistent.

We can do this for you. Open a request in your client portal and attach your product photos. Our team can remove backgrounds and match them across your catalog.

Common problems

  • If the outline cuts off part of the product, retake the photo on a plainer background with more contrast.
  • If edges look jagged, send us the original and we can clean the cutout.
  • If a white product disappears on a white background, use a gray or colored background instead.

Still need help?

Ask our team
How do I remove the background from a product photo? | Website Wannabe Support