In the image below, the picture of the swimmer was easily isolated and inserted into a different scene, with realistic results. For example, you can mix it with other picture elements to create custom photo compositions.

After a photo element has been cut out, you can manipulate it as you would any floating object. The complex masking functionality of the Cutout Lab enables you to create high-quality photo composites.

It automatically applies transparent edge-feathering, and it enables you to decide whether your cutout will be an object without a background, an object on top of the original image, or a clip mask attached to the original image. Much more than just a quick selection tool, the Cutout Lab accurately detects almost any shape and preserves the fine details of an image. Either way, you'll find yourself with a welcome alternative to Photoshop's Background Eraser and Extract commands.The Cutout Lab introduced in Corel PHOTO-PAINT® X3 enables you to extract or copy photo elements from any digital image with precision and relative ease. Which one you choose should depend on your needs and your budget. But although Mask Pro is twice as expensive as KnockOut, it is only slightly better. Mask Pro, on the other hand, is more sophisticated and flexible. KnockOut is easier to master, has better documentation, and works in Jasc Paint Shop Pro. Mask Pro's technique is color-based: You define which colors to keep and which to exclude, and Mask Pro separates the areas. With KnockOut, you outline the definite foreground and background areas, then let the plug-in worry about the transition between the two. Corel KnockOut 2 ($99.99 direct) and Extensis Mask Pro 3 ($199.95 direct) are Photoshop plug-ins that significantly ease this task.

Cutting a car out of an image is one thing, but if you've ever tried to separate a person's wind-blown hair from a complex background so you could composite her in a different setting, you know what an ugly chore masking can be.

Corel knockout 2