How to Put Text Behind Image - Free Online Tool
Place text behind people in your images with AI - right in your browser. Perfect for YouTube thumbnails, Instagram posts, and vertical Shorts & Reels.
“Text Behind Image” is a popular design technique where your headline appears to sit behind the subject—usually a person—while still remaining crisp and readable. The effect draws attention to the face and headline at the same time, creating depth without complex masking. With TextBehind.App, the entire effect runs in your browser using AI subject detection—no uploads, heavy software, or manual layer work.
Creators use this look across YouTube, Shorts & Reels, Instagram, and promo graphics because it boosts scannability and click‑through. A short, bold headline paired with a clear subject is easier to parse at a glance—especially on mobile. That’s why our presets focus on strong fonts, safe areas, and small tweaks (like thin strokes and subtle shadows) that keep text readable without adding visual clutter.
How it works
- Upload: Start with a photo where the subject is clearly separated from the background (faces help). You can crop to platform‑ready sizes later.
- Headline: Keep it short (2-5 words). Condensed bold sans‑serifs work well for thumbnails. Avoid long phrases that get illegible on small screens.
- Enable Text Behind AI: Toggle the feature to automatically place your headline behind the detected subject. If needed, nudge text and adjust size.
- Readability: Add a thin stroke or soft shadow. Keep the face and eyes fully visible. Position within “safe areas” so app controls never cover key words.
- Export: Download as PNG, JPG, or WebP. Save in larger sizes if you'll reuse the image across different platforms.
Tips
- Use a short hook (2-4 words). The goal is instant comprehension, not full sentences.
- Prefer condensed bold fonts and tighten letter‑spacing slightly for thumbnails.
- Keep contrast high: pair light text with dark backgrounds or add a thin stroke for separation.
- Mind safe areas: on vertical video, avoid the bottom and left edges where captions/controls sit. See Shorts & Reels tips.
- Test on mobile: zoom out to “phone distance” and confirm every word stays readable.
Deep dive guides: Fonts for Thumbnails · Contrast & Stroke · Safe Areas · Export Sizes
Platform sizes
- YouTube Thumbnails: 1280×720 (min) or 1920×1080 (recommended).
- Instagram Posts: 1080×1080 square or 1080×1350 portrait.
- Shorts & Reels: 1080×1920 vertical. Keep hooks away from bottom/left.
Popular use cases
- YouTube Thumbnails - bold, readable titles.
- Instagram Posts - stylish square 1080×1080 posts.
- Shorts & Reels - vertical 1080×1920 layouts.
Troubleshooting
- Text overlaps the face: shrink headline slightly or move it to a darker background patch; keep eyes unobstructed.
- Low contrast: add a thin stroke, switch to white/yellow text, or nudge away from bright highlights.
- Looks cramped: reduce words, increase line height a touch, or widen margins from edges.
FAQ
Does it run locally?
Yes. Everything happens in your browser - your images stay on your device for complete privacy.
What sizes are best?
1080×1080 for Instagram posts, 1280×720 or 1920×1080 for YouTube, and 1080×1920 for Shorts & Reels.
Is it free?
Yes, you can try it free. Pro unlocks unlimited HD exports and commercial use.
Continue learning: YouTube Thumbnails, Instagram Posts, Shorts & Reels. Need unlimited exports? See Pricing or visit the FAQ.