Adding an overlay in CapCut PC takes three steps: import your video, add the overlay file from your media library, and position it on the timeline above your main clip
CapCut's overlay feature lets you layer images, videos, or text on top of your main footage. On Windows, overlays sit on separate tracks above your primary video, so you can resize, move, and time them independently. The overlay stays visible for as long as you want it to appear in your final video.
You do not need to buy anything or use external software. CapCut comes with built-in overlay options, and you can also import your own image or video files from your computer.
Key Takeaways
- Import your main video into CapCut, then use the plus icon in the media panel to add overlay files from your computer.
- Drag the overlay onto the timeline above your main video track so it layers on top rather than replacing your footage.
- Use the resize handles on the canvas to scale your overlay, and drag it to reposition it anywhere on the screen.
- Adjust the overlay's duration by dragging its edges on the timeline, and use the opacity slider to make it transparent if needed.
Import your video and open the media panel
Start CapCut and create a new project. Click the folder icon or drag your main video file directly into the media panel on the left side of the screen. Once your video appears in the media library, drag it down to the timeline at the bottom to add it as your primary clip.
The media panel is where all your files live — videos, images, and audio. You will add your overlay file here before placing it on the timeline. If you do not see the media panel, check the left sidebar; it should be the first tab.
Add your overlay file to the media library
Click the plus icon in the media panel (it looks like a small + symbol). A file browser opens. Navigate to the folder where your overlay file is stored — this could be a PNG image, JPG, or another video file. Select the file and click Open.
CapCut accepts most common formats: PNG and JPG images work well for transparent or semi-transparent overlays, and MP4 or MOV video files work if you want a moving overlay. The file now appears in your media library, ready to use.
Drag the overlay onto the timeline above your main video
Find your overlay file in the media panel. Click and hold it, then drag it onto the timeline. The key step is to place it on a track above your main video clip, not on the same track. You will see the timeline split into multiple horizontal rows — your overlay should land on the row above your primary footage.
If you accidentally place it on the same track as your main video, it will replace that section instead of layering on top. straightforward undo (Ctrl+Z) and drag it to the row above. Once it is in the right position, release the mouse button.
Resize and position your overlay on the canvas
Click the overlay clip on the timeline to select it. The canvas in the center of the screen now shows your overlay. You will see small squares at the corners and edges — these are resize handles. Drag any corner handle to scale the overlay while keeping its proportions, or drag an edge handle to stretch it in one direction.
To move the overlay around the screen, click and drag it directly on the canvas. You can place it in the center, a corner, or anywhere else you want it to appear. The overlay stays in that position for the entire duration it is on the timeline.
Adjust the overlay's length and transparency
The overlay clip on the timeline has a start point and an end point. To make it shorter, hover over the right edge of the overlay clip until your cursor changes to a resize arrow, then drag left. To make it longer, drag the right edge to the right. The overlay will only be visible during the time span you set.
If you want the overlay to be see-through, select it and look for the opacity or transparency slider in the right panel. Drag the slider left to make it more transparent, or right to make it fully opaque. This is useful if you want the overlay to blend with your background video rather than completely cover it.
Use CapCut's built-in overlays instead of importing files
CapCut also includes a library of ready-made overlays. Click the Effects tab in the left panel, then look for the Overlay section. Browse the available options — these include light leaks, film grain, vignettes, and other visual effects. Click one to preview it, then drag it onto your timeline the same way you would drag an imported file.
Built-in overlays are faster if you do not have a specific image in mind. You can still resize and reposition them on the canvas, and adjust their transparency. Many creators use these for a polished, professional look without needing to source external files.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a video file as an overlay instead of an image?
Yes. CapCut treats video files the same way as images — drag them into the media panel, then onto the timeline above your main clip. The video overlay will play on top of your background footage. You can trim it, adjust its speed, and control its transparency just like an image overlay.
Why is my overlay covering the entire screen instead of staying in one spot?
Your overlay is probably scaled to fill the whole canvas. Click it on the timeline to select it, then use the corner resize handles on the canvas to make it smaller. Drag it to the position where you want it to appear. If it is still too large, check that you dragged it to a separate track above your main video, not onto the same track.
How do I make my overlay fade in or fade out?
Select the overlay clip on the timeline. In the right panel, look for the Fade option or Transition section. You can add a fade-in at the start and a fade-out at the end. Adjust the duration of the fade by dragging the fade handles on the timeline or entering a time value in the panel.
Can I add multiple overlays at the same time?
Yes. Add each overlay file to the media library, then drag each one onto a separate track above your main video. You can stack as many overlays as you want, and each one can have its own position, size, duration, and transparency. They will all play together on top of your background footage.
What file formats work best for overlays?
PNG files with transparent backgrounds work best for image overlays because they blend smoothly over your video. JPG files work too but do not support transparency. For video overlays, MP4 and MOV formats are most reliable. Keep file sizes reasonable — very large files can slow down your project.