Get Clean Image Cutouts Right Inside Midjourney

For a long time, removing backgrounds from your Midjourney images meant taking them somewhere else to edit. Midjourney did not have a built-in way to do this. But now, that option is here.

This guide shows you how to get clean background removals directly within Midjourney using the new Smart Select tool. We will also cover how to set up your images for best results right from the beginning with smart prompting.

If you create content, design mockups, or make production art, learning these steps will save you a lot of time. Let's dive in.

Understanding Midjourney Backgrounds

First, let's clear something up. Midjourney does not create images with transparent backgrounds, even if you ask for it in your prompt. It’s a myth that Midjourney can output a PNG with nothing behind your subject, at least for now. You will always get an image with a solid background color, like white, black, or another color.

So, if you need an actual cutout, you will need to remove the background after the image is created.

Prompting for Better Background Removal

Want to make removing the background easier later? Start with your prompt! A simple change in setup can make a big difference. Use prompt wording like:

• isolated flat white background

• sticker with a white outline

Using prompts like these sets you up for a much cleaner and simpler background removal step later on. A small change in your prompt can save you a lot of time and frustration.

Removing the Background Using Smart Select

Here is how you can remove the background right in Midjourney:

Step 1: Open the Edit Tab

Find the image you want to edit in Midjourney. Click the 'Edit' button near the image. Then, click 'Open and Edit Tab'.

Step 2: Use Smart Select

In the edit tab, find and click the 'Smart Select' button. Now, click on one end of the object you want to keep and then click on the other end. Midjourney's smart tool will try to select the main subject.

Sometimes, it might miss tiny bits or have slightly rough edges. Currently, there is not much you can do about this within Midjourney itself. It gets most of it, but understand it might not be perfect every time.

Step 3: Erase Background

Once Smart Select has made its selection, click the 'Erase Background' button. Just like that, the background is removed!

This is why prompting with a white outline or a simple background works well. It helps the Smart Select tool clearly identify the edges of the subject you want to keep.

When Smart Select Works Best (and When It Might Not)

The Smart Select tool works very well with subjects that have clear edges and are on simple or contrasting backgrounds, like a solid white one or with a distinct outline.

However, it can struggle with complex shapes, intricate details, or subjects blended with the background (like a shark in waves, as seen in the video). In these cases, the result might look a bit rough or "jaggy."

If your work requires very precise or perfect cutouts, you might still need to use external tools like Photoshop, Canva, or Affinity Photo. But if you are removing the background to continue editing the image within Midjourney and place it onto a new background, Smart Select can be perfectly fine.

Putting Your Cutouts to Work

Once you have a clean cutout, it is ready for many uses. You can drop it directly into design mockups, web banners, social media posts, or other creative projects. This makes your work look more polished and speeds up your creative process significantly.

Handling background removal and other editing tasks efficiently is key to a smooth workflow. Consider using a tool that automates some of these repetitive steps for you. The Midjourney Automation Suite from TitanXT can help streamline many aspects of your Midjourney workflow, making tasks like image preparation faster.

Wrapping Up

Being able to remove backgrounds inside Midjourney with the Smart Select tool is a great new option that saves time compared to exporting and using external software. While it isn't always perfect, especially on complex images, prompting correctly and understanding its limitations can make it a valuable part of your workflow.

Need to handle many images, including background removal and other edits? Automating parts of your Midjourney process can boost your output. Explore the Midjourney Automation Suite from TitanXT to see how it can help.

What are your favorite tips for cleaning up Midjourney images? Share your ideas in the comments below!