[i speak in math]

To insert the portrait, I use the "place" function located in the file menu. I resize the picture by holding shift and dragging the corners (shift keeps the aspect ratio of the shot). Then center, or 1/3, your subject on the canvas and click the check mark to place it.

http://picasaweb.google.com/enoeske/...81978070743250

In order for the image to be editable, you will need to rasterize the image you placed. If you drag your subject image over your canvas, you may not need to do this.

http://picasaweb.google.com/enoeske/...81987382229330

Next, we need to erase the background from the subject image. I like to use the quick mask tool and "paint" my subject. Choose quick mask, then the paint brush. I use around 50% hardness and whatever size brush is needed.

http://picasaweb.google.com/enoeske/...82002953691538