Skip to main content

Background Removal Guide

Pictor avatar
Written by Pictor
Updated over 2 weeks ago

Pictor provides built-in background removal for both standard captures and AI outputs. This article explains how background removal works, how to enable it, and what options are available.

Overview

Background removal allows you to remove the background from a captured photo or an AI-generated image. You can then place the cut-out subject onto custom designs, graphics, or layered compositions inside the Pictor template editor.

Pictor supports:

  • Background removal on original photos

  • Background removal on AI output images

  • On-device (free) background removal

  • Premium cloud-based background removal (Pro license required)


Background Removal Types

1. On-Device Background Removal (Free)

  • Runs directly on the device

  • Works without an internet connection

  • Uses no tokens

  • Activated automatically when the device is offline

  • Good for fast, simple cutouts

2. Premium Background Removal (Cloud)

  • Higher-accuracy AI model

  • Requires a Pro license

  • Uses tokens

  • Recommended for client-facing activations or detailed portrait work


Enable Background Removal on a Capture Photo

  1. Open your event template.

  2. Add a Capture component (or select an existing one).

  3. Go to Effects → Remove Background.

  4. Choose Free or Premium background removal.

  5. Arrange your capture layer above any backgrounds or graphics.

Once enabled, Pictor will remove the background immediately after each photo is taken.


Using Multiple Captures With Background Removal

Pictor supports multiple capture components within one template.
Each capture can have its own background removal setting.

Examples:

  • Layer two different poses of the guest

  • Apply blend modes

  • Create double-exposures or artistic overlays

To set this up:

  1. Add multiple Capture components.

  2. Enable Remove Background on each capture you want processed.

  3. Arrange layers as needed under Layers Panel.

  4. (Optional) Apply blend modes such as Multiply for style effects.


Using Background Removal With AI Output

Background removal can also be applied to images generated from Pictor’s AI tools.

To enable:

  1. Add an AI Output component.

  2. Select an AI prompt or style.

  3. Duplicate AI outputs if you want multiple variations.

  4. Select an AI output layer.

  5. Go to Effects → Remove Background.

  6. Enable Premium or Free background removal.

Notes:

  • AI images must finish rendering before background removal completes.

  • Each AI output layer can have separate background removal settings.


Previewing and Testing

  • Background removal can be tested in Simulator Mode.

  • If you do not have a Pro license, a message will appear indicating a Pro license is required for premium removal.

  • On-device removal works in both simulation and live mode when offline.


Output Results

After processing, you will see:

  • Original photo with background removed

  • AI output with background removed (if enabled)

  • Additional AI variations (if you created multiples)

Each output is saved separately inside the event’s Sessions panel.


When to Use Background Removal

Background removal is especially useful for:

  • Greenless green screen

  • Themed scenes and branded environments

  • AI-enhanced portraits

  • Collages and double exposures

  • Layered compositions

  • Events with limited physical backdrops


Requirements

  • Premium removal: Pro license + tokens

  • On-device removal: No license or tokens required

  • AI output removal: Requires AI features enabled in your plan

Did this answer your question?