Backdrops/Photoshop- Need some help!

[Ronald S. Jr.]

Ok, so I'm doing a few shots for some people for christmas. Among them, my brother, his wife, and my nephew (together). Right now, I only have a single black muslin background. Now for the question. She wants me to "photoshop" the backgrounds and change them. I basically know how to do this, although I don't know if it's the best way. Secondly, I don't know if my black background is alright for "photoshopping" out. I would think black would pose a problem, especially when they'll probably be wearing black shoes and such. Can anyone help me out on how to accomplish this?

Also, is there anyplace I can find some fairly simple free digital backgrounds? Anyone have some they'd be willing to share/sell?

[Harry Settle]

Best if you can use a background that will not conflict with any colors that anyone will be wearing, also hair. Any solid color will work, depending on anything else in the picture that will interfere. I bought a couple of green sheets and sewed them together, it works pretty well for some applications. You have to make sure that you maintain subject to background separation.

You can actually make your own backgrounds in PS by selecting the desireable color, add noise, gradient etc. The attached photo was taken in front of a window with vertical blinds. It's not the best clone and color job, but I like it.

[PhotosGuy]

Tutorial - Create a layer mask from image detail
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=100077

[SmilesforLife]

Would love to see more examples.