I usually do 2 areas. I use shape layer overlay for all the hard edge areas. Then I'll dup the layer for hair and use the selection refinements like the link Bob posted. Then make the shape and the selection the mask of the person I then go deep into the refinements like Brandon said.
Most of the time I'll start off by outlining the subject with the Pen tool, then use Refine Edge and other techniques to finesse the edges as needed.
As I work I'll also throw a layer filled with some contrasting color behind my object so I can see where the mask needs more work.
Medium soft brush, lots of zoom and patience. Recently I learned how to work with the Pen tool but I use it only if there are straight lines and regular curves. I rarely shoot the people (or objects) against a seamless background and automated cutting is not an option. Tried automated cutting a few times when the background was plain but again I had to refine some parts with the good ol' brush. So brush is my main tool.
I do it manually. Zoom into about 500% use an 8 pixel hard brush and just follow the edges. :) A bit tedious but you can see how clean my comps are!
Hella Clean! Your stuff Rules :)
Try this mate:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MeE8euR_R_M&list=PLtH_vK0A3GR_X4V4vn14ru...
Theres tonnes of compositing stuff on Glyns channel, too.
I usually do 2 areas. I use shape layer overlay for all the hard edge areas. Then I'll dup the layer for hair and use the selection refinements like the link Bob posted. Then make the shape and the selection the mask of the person I then go deep into the refinements like Brandon said.
Path Tool is my mostly used :)
Most of the time I'll start off by outlining the subject with the Pen tool, then use Refine Edge and other techniques to finesse the edges as needed.
As I work I'll also throw a layer filled with some contrasting color behind my object so I can see where the mask needs more work.
My best methods: use pen tool, channels and masking
Medium soft brush, lots of zoom and patience. Recently I learned how to work with the Pen tool but I use it only if there are straight lines and regular curves. I rarely shoot the people (or objects) against a seamless background and automated cutting is not an option. Tried automated cutting a few times when the background was plain but again I had to refine some parts with the good ol' brush. So brush is my main tool.