Use the Content-Aware Move tool

Last updated on Oct 6, 2026

Learn how to use the Content Aware Move tool in Adobe Photoshop on desktop.

The Content-Aware Move tool repositions or extends objects automatically, eliminating manual editing. It works best when the surrounding background is visually similar.

You can use the Content-Aware Move tool in two modes:

  • Use the Move mode to place objects in different locations.
  • Use the Extend mode to expand or contract objects.

In the toolbar, hold down the Spot Healing Brush tool and select the Content-Aware Move tool from the menu.

Set Content-Aware Move options in the options bar.

  • Mode – use modes to move or extend objects
  • Structure – set values from 1-7 to specify image pattern strength
  • Color – set values from 0-10 for blending colors.
  • Sample All Layers – to view the layers before selection
  • Transform On Drop – Enable the option to scale the part of the image that you've just moved to its new location. Adjust the resizing handles for the moved part of the image.

Drag the selection to the target location.

Press Enter or select Commit in the options bar.