dkb wrote:
> John Inzer wrote:
>
>> dkb wrote:
>>
>>> Thanks for your detalied guidance. I shall download this
>>> file later at the time when there is lean Internet
>>> traffice at this time in this part of the world.
>>
>>
>> =========================================
>> You're welcome. BTW, what part of the world are you posting from?
>> =========================================
>>
>>> I am sorry not to have defined the problem properly---yes
>>> it is the cutout (proper word) that I am in need of. I
>>> shall try it and see whether later I can afford it to
>>> purchase.
>>
>>
>> =========================================
>> Let us know if you require further assistance.
>>
> Thank You very much. I have downloaded the file and used it. Yes this is
> what I needed. I am from India.

In Photoshop (and Photoshop Elements) this is called "selection", and
can be done either by free drawing, assisted drawing (magic wand), or
by color range. For many photos, color range provides a very good start
at a mask, which can be easily touched up by drawing in quickmask mode.

For difficult cases (like fine or blowing hair against a background)
there are great (but expensive) add-ins for Photoshop (like Knockout)
that create extremely detailed masks quickly.

For most people, who rarely have a difficult case, the ordinary
process is best, but may require some patience in detailed areas
with little color contrast.

-michael

Music synthesis for 8-bit Apple II's!
Home page: http://members.aol.com/MJMahon/

"The wastebasket is our most important design
tool--and it is seriously underused."