What does Image Overlay do?

It layers an animated effect GIF on top of a static photo, turning your still image into an animated GIF.

Does the effect GIF need a transparent background?

For best results, yes. Effect GIFs with transparent backgrounds (like sparkles, confetti, or snow) blend cleanly over your photo. Opaque effect GIFs will simply cover the photo beneath them.

What image formats can I use as the background?

JPG, PNG, and WebP all work. The photo is treated as a single still frame that plays underneath the animated effect.

Can I resize or reposition the effect?

Yes. Use the Scale slider to resize the effect layer, and the position sliders to place it anywhere within the frame.

Can I adjust how transparent the effect is?

Yes. The Opacity slider blends the effect layer with the photo beneath it.

Is my original photo modified?

No. A new animated GIF is created in your browser. Your original photo and the effect GIF remain unchanged.

How is this different from GIF Overlay?

GIF Overlay combines two existing GIFs. Image Overlay starts from a single still photo and animates it by adding a moving effect on top, producing a new GIF.

Can I use my own custom effect instead of a preset?

Yes. Upload any transparent-background GIF as the effect layer instead of picking one of the built-in presets.

Why does my overlay look shifted after resizing?

The Position X/Y sliders are relative to the overlay's current size, so resizing first and then repositioning gives more predictable placement.

Can I undo changes after creating the overlay?

Yes, use the back option to return to the adjustment screen and change scale, opacity, or position, then re-render without re-uploading your files.

Image Overlay

Layer an animated effect GIF on top of a static photo — position, scale, and adjust opacity.

Background Image

Effect GIF (transparent)

No effect GIF? Pick a preset

Turn a single photo into an animated GIF by layering an effect animation on top — adjust scale, position, and opacity, then export the result, all processed locally in your browser.

Great for adding sparkle, snow, rain, or confetti effects to a still photo. Works best with transparent-background effect GIFs, and the photo plays as a static frame under the looping effect.

How to Add a GIF Effect to a Photo

1
Upload Photo
Upload the static photo that will fill the frame.
2
Upload Effect GIF
Upload an animated GIF (ideally with a transparent background) to layer on top, like sparkles, rain, or snow.
3
Adjust
Use the sliders to scale, position, and set the opacity of the effect layer.
4
Combine & Download
Click 'Create Animated Overlay' to composite the photo and effect into one animated GIF, then download.

Image Overlay — FAQ

Last Updated: August 14, 2026

Image Overlay

How to Add a GIF Effect to a Photo

Image Overlay — FAQ

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