Are you wondering how to remove background from a picture in Google Docs? If so, you’re in the right place! Removing backgrounds from images can enhance your documents and presentations, making them look more professional and polished. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process step by step, explore various techniques, and provide tips to achieve the best possible results. Let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Why Remove Background from Images?
Removing a picture’s background can serve many purposes in your documents. For instance:
- Professionalism: A clean image without distractions looks more polished and conveys a professional tone.
- Focus on Subject: By eliminating the background, you allow your audience to focus on the image’s main subject.
- Custom Designs: Background removal enables you to create custom graphics that fit your document theme.
- Better Presentation: It can help unify the look of your document, allowing images to complement the text rather than compete with it.
How to Remove Background from Picture or Image in Google Docs
Google Docs doesn’t offer a direct feature to remove backgrounds from images like some other graphic editing software. However, you can achieve this using Google Slides, which integrates seamlessly with Google Docs. Here’s how:
Step 1: Insert the Image
- Open Google Slides: Start by creating a new presentation in Google Slides.
- Insert Image: Click “Insert” in the menu, then select “Image.” Options include uploading from your device, pasting a URL, or selecting from Google Drive.
Step 2: Select the Image
After uploading the image, select it by clicking directly on it. A toolbar then pops up just above the chosen picture.
Step 3: Format the Image
- Click on ‘Format Options’: At the top of the screen, you’ll see a button labeled “Format.” Click on it.
- Choose ‘Adjustments’: A sidebar will appear on the right. Look for “Remove Background,” usually under the ‘Adjusted’ section. Click on it, and Google Slides will automatically identify the areas of the image that should be removed.
Step 4: Fine-Tune Your Selection
After you click “Remove Background,” you might see a magenta overlay indicating the parts of the image that will be deleted. If the selection isn’t perfect, you can manually adjust it by following these steps:
- Mark Areas to Keep: Use the “Mark areas to keep” tool to refine the parts of the image you want to keep. Click and drag over the areas you wish to retain.
- Mark Areas to Remove: If some parts of the image you want to delete remain, use the “Mark areas to remove” option.
- Review and Adjust: Adjust the markers until satisfied with the resulting image.
Step 5: Apply Your Changes
Once you’re happy with your selections, click on “Done.” You should now see the background removed from your image.
Step 6: Download the Image
To get your newly edited image ready for use in Google Docs:
- Right-click on the Image: Right-click the image in the Google Slides window.
- Select ‘Save to Keep’: Save the image to your Google Keep. You can easily drag it into your Google Docs or download it here.
- Download to your Computer: If you prefer, you can download the image directly by clicking “Download” and selecting the appropriate image file format.
Step 7: Insert into Google Docs
Now it’s time to transfer your edited image back to Google Docs:
- Open your Google Docs document.
- Click “Insert” and then “Image.”
- Select “Upload from Computer” or “From Drive,” depending on how you saved it.
Tips for Best Results
To achieve the finest look while removing backgrounds, consider the following:
- High-Quality Images: Start with high-resolution images. The clearer your original image, the better the quality after background removal.
- Simple Backgrounds: Images clearly distinguishing between the subject and background are easier to edit. Avoid busy or complex backgrounds when possible.
- Fine-Tune After Inserting: Once your image is in Google Docs, you can still adjust its size and position to ensure it fits seamlessly into your layout.
Practical Uses of Background Removal
You might be wondering when you would need to remove a background. Here are some common scenarios:
Creating Promotional Material
If you’re putting together flyers or brochures, images without backgrounds can help them look more attractive and professional.
Academic Projects
When writing reports or creating presentations, having clean visuals supports your insights and arguments, making your work stand out.
Personal Projects
For personal blogs, social media posts, or family newsletters, background removal can add a creative flair to your images, making them more engaging.
E-commerce
If you’re selling products online, clear images with removed backgrounds can enhance your listings’ aesthetic appeal, helping attract potential customers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Related to How To Remove Background From Picture In Google Docs
Q. Can I remove the background of images directly in Google Docs?
A. No, you cannot remove backgrounds directly in Google Docs. You need to use Google Slides first and then transfer the edited image.
Q. What types of images work best for background removal?
A. Images with a definite subject and a simple background are ideal for background removal.
Q. Is there a way to undo changes if I don’t like the results?
A. Yes. You can simply click the “Undo” option after making changes or start the background removal process again.
Q. Can I use this method on mobile devices?
A. Definitely! You can also use Google Slides on mobile, but the interface may differ from the desktop version.
Q. Will removing the background affect the quality of the image?
A. If done correctly, it should not affect the quality. Ensure you start with a clear, high-quality image to achieve optimal results.
Q. Can I use third-party apps to remove background?
A. Absolutely! Many third-party apps are available that allow for more advanced background removal features.
Q. Is adding a new background after removing the old one possible?
A. Yes. You can add a new background using image editing software after removing the old background.
Q. How can I share my edited images with others?
A. Once you’ve removed the background and saved the image, you can share it through Google Docs or email.
Q. Are there any shortcuts for quicker background removal?
A. There aren’t any shortcuts, but using Google Slides is the most effective method.
Q. Can I remove backgrounds from PDF images using Google Docs?
A. Google Docs does not support PDF image editing. You would need to convert the PDF to an image format first.
Conclusion
Removing the background from pictures in Google Docs may seem daunting at first. However, using the correct tools and methods allows you to improve your images successfully. While Google Docs does not have a direct tool for this purpose, platforms like Google Drawings and other online tools can provide excellent alternatives. So, whether you’re creating a report or preparing for an important presentation, using the steps from this article, you can make your images look polished and professional!
