This is the “I’m too lazy to open a menu” method. It’s my favorite. Grab the Rectangular Marquee Tool (or Elliptical—no judgment).
Now, look up at the top of your screen. See that little box that says “Feather”? Set it to, say, 20 pixels. Then make your selection.
Boom. You’ve got a built-in blur on the edges. It’s like ordering coffee with a splash of vanilla—simple and instantly better.
Wait, how much feather do you need?
That’s the million-dollar question. 5 pixels is just a whisper. 50 pixels is a foggy morning. For portraits, start with 10-15 pixels. You want it soft, not looking like they’re standing behind a shower curtain.
My rule of thumb? If the edge looks like a bad haircut, add more feather. If it looks like a ghost, take it down a notch. You’re the stylist here.
