In this guide, we’ll show you how to make an image transparent using some built-in methods and third-party apps on different programs including Paint, PowerPoint and Google Slides.
1. In Microsoft Paint 3D
Microsoft Paint is a refresh of the age-old Microsoft Paint and it’s included for free with Windows 10. You can use Paint 3D for simple drawing needs including making an image transparent. Note: If you don’t like the result of the image, you can use Adobe Photoshop to create transparent backgrounds and layer images for great effect.
2. In Microsoft Word
If you’re using Word, you can make an image transparent, but you’ll need to draw a shape first, fill it with your image and then adjust the transparency. To make the shape itself transparent, select Insert > Shapes, choose a shape and draw it. Right-click the shape, select Format Shape and then select Fill. From here you can drag the transparency slider to the desired degree of transparency. Note: You can’t make an image transparent in Office for the web.
3. In Microsoft PowerPoint
Microsoft PowerPoint offers some basic tools you can use to edit images including the ability to make an image transparent. Every instance of the selected color in your image will now be fully transparent and take on the color of the slide’s background.
4. In Microsoft Publisher
Microsoft Publisher is a desktop publishing program similar to Word but its focus is more on page layout and design. You make an image transparent in Publisher for use in various publications.
5. In Google Slides
If you’re using Google Slides, you can make an image transparent if you want to add it on top of another image or place text on top of it.
6. In Google Docs
Google Docs offers some basic tools that help you make an image transparent and add it anywhere in your document.
7. In Office 365 on Windows and Mac
If you’re a Microsoft 365 subscriber, you can access and use the Transparency tool to make images transparent in Office 365.
8. Make an Image Transparent on Mac
Mac users can change the transparency of an object or image in programs like Pages, Keynote or Numbers. Numbers is Apple’s spreadsheet app, which you can use to create beautiful spreadsheets with impressive images and tables while Keynote is Apple’s PowerPoint for making dazzling presentations.
9. Using Third-Party Apps
If you just want a quick way of making images transparent, you can use an online tool like Online PNG. Alternatively, you can use a third-party app like Snagit or Canva. If you prefer a more sophisticated program, Adobe Photoshop is worth considering.
Adjust Image Transparency Easily
By changing the transparency of the filters, layers or effects on an image, you can ensure that more (or less) of the image shows through. We hope this guide eases the process of making your images transparent on Windows and Mac. For more tips and tricks in digital photography, check out 7 image modifications you can do in Photoshop and how to easily add watermarks to your online photos before uploading. Leave a comment below and let us know whether this guide was helpful to you.