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Low key images are about high contrast dramatic lighting. The trick is start with the right image.

Your not actually replacing the background  as much as you are adding to it and darkening it. There should never be a need to cut out the subject or use gradients. The best tool would be the Brush Tool. There are other methods but none with better control.

Here I have chosen a high contrast image.

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On a new layer I just start brushing with an ALMOST black color to fill in the background.

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Then you lower the opacity and hardness of your brush and start working the edges.

Stick to the areas that would naturally be dark and watch the contours.

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You can do as little or go as far as you wish.......

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