What is a text behind image effect?

A text behind image effect (also called depth text or layered typography) places text between the background and the subject of a photo, creating the illusion that text is woven into the scene. It's the signature look of magazine covers, YouTube thumbnails, movie posters, and social media graphics. AdCreate's free generator uses AI-powered subject detection to separate the foreground from the background, then composites your custom text between the two layers — no Photoshop masking or manual cutouts required.

Is this text behind image tool really free?

Yes, 100% free with no limits. The entire tool runs in your browser using on-device machine learning — we don't process anything on our servers, so there's no cost to us and no cost to you. No signup, no watermarks, no credit card, no usage caps. Export in original resolution, 2x, or 4K as many times as you want.

How does the AI detect the subject in my image?

The tool uses @imgly/background-removal, a state-of-the-art machine learning model that runs entirely in your browser via WebAssembly. It analyzes the image to identify the primary subject (person, product, animal, object) and generates a precise segmentation mask. This mask separates the foreground subject from the background, allowing text to be placed between the two layers. Processing takes 2-5 seconds depending on image complexity.

What fonts and styling options are available?

The generator includes 150+ Google Fonts ranging from bold display typefaces to elegant serifs and modern sans-serifs. You can customize font size, color (with full color picker), opacity, letter spacing, and line height. The standout feature is 3D text transforms — rotate text on the X, Y, and Z axes to create perspective effects that match the angle and depth of your image. You can also add multiple text layers, each with independent positioning and styling.

Can I use this for YouTube thumbnails?

Absolutely — YouTube thumbnails are one of the most popular use cases. The text-behind-subject effect is proven to increase click-through rates because it creates visual depth that stands out in crowded feeds. Upload your thumbnail image, add bold text behind the subject, and export at 2x or 4K resolution for crisp results at any screen size. Many creators use this effect for their channel branding.

What image formats and sizes are supported?

The tool accepts JPG, JPEG, and PNG images of any size. There's no maximum resolution limit since processing happens in your browser — though very large images (8000px+) may take longer to process. Export is always in PNG format for lossless quality, with three resolution options: original (1x), double (2x), and 4K. For best results, use high-resolution source images.

Do I need Photoshop to create text behind image effects?

No. Traditional methods require Photoshop layer masking, pen tool selections, and manual compositing — a process that takes 10-30 minutes per image even for experienced designers. AdCreate's free generator automates the entire workflow with AI subject detection, so you get the same professional result in under 30 seconds with zero design skills. It's the fastest way to create text-behind-image effects online.

Can I create text behind image effects for Instagram and TikTok?

Yes. The text-behind-image effect is trending on Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest for cover images, story graphics, and post thumbnails. The tool works with any aspect ratio — upload a 1080x1080 square for Instagram, a 1080x1920 vertical for Stories and TikTok, or any custom size. After export, you can use the image directly or bring it into AdCreate's video tools to animate it into a motion graphic.

100% Free — No Signup Required

Text Behind Image Generator

Create stunning text behind image effects in seconds. AI-powered subject detection separates your subject from the background, then places your custom text between the layers — creating the magazine cover look without Photoshop.

150+ Google Fonts, 3D text transforms, unlimited layers, and 4K export. Everything runs in your browser — no uploads to servers, no accounts, no watermarks. Free forever.

Try Text Behind Image Free See How It Works

Free

No Signup Needed

150+

Google Fonts

Export Resolution

<5s

AI Processing Time

How the Text Behind Image Generator Works

From upload to export in under 30 seconds. No Photoshop, no layer masks, no design skills required — AI handles the hard part while you focus on the creative.

Upload Any Image

Drag and drop or click to upload any JPG or PNG. The AI instantly detects your subject — a person, product, pet, or any object — and separates it from the background in 2-5 seconds using on-device machine learning.

Add Text Layers

Click "Add Text Layer" and type your message. The text is automatically placed between the background and the subject, creating a professional depth effect. Add as many layers as you need.

Customize with 3D Transforms

Choose from 150+ Google Fonts, adjust size, color, and opacity. Use X, Y, and Z axis rotation to create perspective effects that match the angle of your image. Fine-tune positioning with drag-and-drop.

Export in High Resolution

Download your finished creation in original resolution, 2x, or 4K. Lossless PNG output — no watermarks, no quality loss. Perfect for YouTube thumbnails, Instagram posts, TikTok covers, and print.

Text Behind Image Features

Professional depth typography effects with zero learning curve. Here's what sets our free tool apart.

AI Subject Detection

State-of-the-art machine learning runs entirely in your browser to detect and separate any subject from its background. No manual masking, no pen tool — just upload and the AI handles the rest.

150+ Google Fonts

From bold display typefaces for YouTube thumbnails to elegant serifs for magazine covers. Every font is instantly available with customizable size, weight, letter spacing, and line height.

3D Text Transforms

Rotate text on the X, Y, and Z axes to create perspective effects that match the depth and angle of your image. The standout feature that most free tools lack — true 3D typography.

Unlimited Text Layers

Stack multiple text layers with different fonts, sizes, colors, and rotations. Each layer is independently configurable and can be repositioned freely on the canvas.

Full Color Control

Pick any color with the full-spectrum color picker. Adjust opacity per layer to create subtle watermark effects or bold, high-contrast typography that demands attention.

4K Export, Zero Watermarks

Download in original resolution, 2x, or 4K. Always lossless PNG. No watermarks, no branding, no usage limits. Your output, your creative — completely free forever.

Text Behind Image Use Cases

From YouTube thumbnails to product marketing — see how creators and brands use the text behind image effect.

YouTube Thumbnails

The text-behind-subject effect is proven to increase click-through rates. Bold titles weaving behind the subject create visual depth that stands out in crowded YouTube feeds and recommended lists.

Instagram & TikTok Graphics

Create eye-catching cover images, carousel posts, and story graphics with layered typography. The effect is trending on both platforms for brand and personal content alike.

Magazine & Poster Design

Recreate the classic magazine cover aesthetic where headlines overlap with the subject. Perfect for event posters, album covers, lookbook layouts, and editorial spreads — no InDesign required.

Product Marketing

Place brand names or taglines behind your product for premium-looking marketing materials. eCommerce product shots, social media ads, and hero images get an instant visual upgrade.

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AdCreate vs Photoshop vs Canva

See how the free text behind image generator compares to traditional design tools.

Feature	AdCreate	Photoshop	Canva
Price	Free forever	$22.99/mo	Pro ($12.99/mo)
AI Subject Detection
Manual Work Required	None	10-30 min masking	Moderate
3D Text Transforms
150+ Fonts
Multiple Text Layers			Limited
4K Export			Pro only
No Watermarks			Pro only
Browser-Based
No Signup Required
Works Offline (after load)

Text Behind Image FAQ

Everything you need to know about creating text behind image effects with our free online generator.

Create Your Text Behind Image — Free

Join thousands of creators using AdCreate's free text behind image generator. No signup, no watermarks, no limits. Upload an image and start creating in seconds.

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