The text-behind-image effect places text between the background and the subject of a photo, creating a striking layered look. It's hugely popular on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube thumbnails. Here's exactly how to do it — for free, in under 60 seconds.
Open Text Behind Image — FreeDrag and drop or click to upload a JPG, PNG, or WebP image. For best results, choose a photo with a clear subject (person, animal, object) and a relatively simple background.
Photos with good lighting and clear edges between the subject and background produce the cleanest results.
Our AI automatically detects the subject in your photo and separates it from the background. This takes 3-10 seconds depending on image complexity. Everything runs locally in your browser — nothing is uploaded to any server.
If processing is slow, try a smaller image. Photos under 5MB process fastest.
Click "Add Text" to place text on the canvas. Customize the font family, size, color, bold/italic, and shadow. Drag the text to position it exactly where you want it behind the subject.
Bold, large text with high contrast colors creates the most dramatic behind-subject effect.
The text automatically appears between the background and the subject. Move and resize text until you're happy with the composition. You can add multiple text layers.
Try placing text where it partially peeks out from behind the subject — this creates the most natural-looking effect.
Click "Export" to download your creation as a high-quality PNG. The image is ready to share on social media, use in presentations, or print.
Use keyboard shortcuts: Delete to remove selected text, Arrow keys to nudge position
For Instagram, use square (1:1) images for maximum feed impact
Neon or bright colors on dark backgrounds create the most eye-catching results
Position text so it partially hides behind the subject for the most natural effect
Try using the subject's name or a single powerful word for maximum impact
Yes, completely free. No hidden paywalls, no watermarks on your exported images, no signup required.
No. All AI processing happens locally in your browser using WebAssembly. Your photos never leave your device.
Photos with clear subjects work best — people, animals, products, cars, etc. The subject should be well-lit with decent contrast against the background.
Yes! Click "Add Text" multiple times to add as many text layers as you need. Each can have different fonts, sizes, and colors.
Any modern browser — Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge. The tool uses WebAssembly which is supported in all modern browsers.
Follow this guide in our free editor — no signup, works in your browser.
Open Text Behind Image