CapCut has quickly become one of the most popular video editing apps for content creators, especially for short-form platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts. One of its most powerful tools is the Overlay feature. When used correctly, overlays can significantly elevate your video quality and give your edits a professional touch. In this guide, you’ll learn how to use Overlay in CapCut step-by-step and discover tips for using it like a pro.
What is Overlay in CapCut?
The Overlay feature in CapCut allows you to place one video or image on top of another. This is commonly used for:
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Adding effects (like light leaks or glitch effects)
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Inserting images or logos
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Creating reaction videos
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Adding green screen content
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Enhancing storytelling with visual layers
Why Use Overlays in CapCut?
Using overlays can help you:
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Make your content more visually engaging
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Add branding elements like logos or watermarks
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Incorporate special effects and transitions
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Create multi-layered visuals for storytelling
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Achieve professional editing results with minimal tools
Step-by-Step: How to Use Overlay in CapCut
Follow these steps to add and customize overlays in your CapCut project:
1. Open CapCut and Start a New Project
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Launch the CapCut app on your phone.
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Tap New Project.
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Select your base video from your gallery.
2. Add the this feature
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Tap on the Overlay tab at the bottom.
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Tap Add Overlay.
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Choose the video, image, or effect you want to overlay on your base footage.
3. Adjust the Overlay Size and Position
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Pinch to resize or drag to move the this feature where you want it to appear.
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Rotate the overlay if necessary to fit your video style.
4. Customize the Overlay
CapCut allows you to apply various effects to overlays:
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Chroma Key: Remove green screen backgrounds.
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Blending Modes: Choose how the this feature interacts with the base video.
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Opacity: Control how transparent the this feature appears.
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Animations: Add intro/outro or loop animations to the overlay for dynamic motion.
5. Trim and Sync the overlay
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Drag the ends of the this feature clip to match the timing of your main video.
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Use the timeline zoom feature for precise adjustments.
6. Add Effects or Filters (Optional)
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Tap Effects or Filters to enhance the this feature or base video.
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Combine with overlays for creative, cinematic edits.
7. Preview and Export
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Tap the play button to preview the final result.
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Once satisfied, tap the Export button (usually in the top-right corner).
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Choose your desired resolution and export the video.
Pro Tips for Using Overlays in CapCut
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Use PNG images for overlays with transparent backgrounds.
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Use chroma key for green screen overlays (great for reaction videos or virtual backgrounds).
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Layer multiple overlays for advanced effects (like text, animations, and stickers).
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Use keyframes to animate overlay movement or size changes over time.
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Combine overlays with sound effects for immersive storytelling.
Common Overlay Ideas for Professional Edits
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Lower-thirds for titles or names
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Animated logos or branding elements
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Visual effects like smoke, light rays, or glitches
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Pop-up texts or emojis
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Reaction frames or meme elements
Final Thoughts
Using this feature in CapCut is an essential skill for any video editor looking to improve their content quality. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced creator, mastering overlays can give your videos a more professional, polished look. With CapCut’s intuitive tools and effects, the creative possibilities are endless.
FAQs About Overlays in CapCut
Can I use multiple overlays in one project?
Yes, CapCut supports multiple overlays. You can stack them to create layered effects.
Can I animate overlays?
Absolutely. Use the animation and keyframe tools to add motion to your overlays.
Does CapCut support video overlays?
Yes, you can this feature videos, not just images.