Remove Objects from Video with Content-Aware Fill

Content-Aware Fill for video extends Photoshop's magic removal to moving footage. Remove boom mics, crew reflections, logos, or any unwanted object from your shots.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Create a mask around the object to remove (use the Pen tool for precision)
2. Track the mask if the object moves — use the Mask Tracker in the Tracker panel
3. Open Window > Content-Aware Fill
4. Set Alpha Expansion to 2-4 pixels (blends edges)
5. Choose Fill Method: Object for distinct items, Surface for textures
6. Click Generate Fill Layer
7. AE analyzes clean frames and fills the masked area

Getting Better Results

The cleaner your mask, the better the fill. Track masks precisely to the object edges. For objects that pass in front of complex backgrounds, work in short segments rather than the entire clip at once. The tool works best with static or slowly-moving cameras and consistent backgrounds.

Alternative: Clean Plates

If Content-Aware Fill struggles, shoot a clean plate — the same framing without the unwanted object. Layer it beneath your main footage and use masks to reveal the clean background where needed. This manual approach gives the most reliable results for complex removals.