What Is an Overlay?

An overlay is an image or texture placed on top of your photo to create visual effects, color moods, or artistic styles. Overlays are commonly used to add light effects, color washes, textures, gradients, or creative distortions.

Unlike filters, overlays combine two images together using different blending methods.

When Should You Use Overlays?

Overlays are useful when you want to:

  • Add artistic textures or color effects
  • Create light, rainbow, or abstract visuals
  • Enhance mood without changing the original image structure
  • Apply creative blending effects

Overlay Categories and Blend Modes

The Overlay Tool includes multiple blending modes that define how the overlay image interacts with your photo:

  • @krblend sr – Soft and subtle overlay blending
  • @krblend hue – Applies color hue from the overlay image
  • @krblend mp – Strong color and contrast mixing
  • @krblend cl – Color blend mode, ideal for rainbow and colorful overlays
  • @krblend sub – Subtractive blending for darker effects
  • @krblend dif – Difference blending for experimental and abstract results

How to Use the Overlay Tool (Step by Step)

1. Select an Overlay Category

Start by choosing one of the overlay blending categories. Each category uses a different blending method and produces a unique visual result.

2. Choose an Overlay from the Preview List

Below the categories, you will see a list of overlay previews:

  • Each overlay shows a live preview on your photo
  • This helps you quickly compare different effects

Tap any overlay to apply it.

3. Adjust Overlay Intensity

Use the intensity slider to control how strong the overlay appears.

  • Higher values make the overlay more visible
  • Lower values keep the effect subtle

4. Compare or Discard the Overlay

The Overlay Tool includes two control buttons:

  • Compare – Temporarily view the original image
  • Discard – Remove the applied overlay

5. Add Your Own Overlay Image

You can also use your own images as overlays:

  • Tap on Image
  • Select a blending mode category
  • Choose an image from your gallery

The selected image will be applied as an overlay using the chosen blending mode. You can then adjust its intensity using the slider.

GIF: Selecting overlay categories, adjusting intensity, comparing, discarding, and adding a custom overlay image

Tips for Better Overlay Results

  • Use colorful images for stronger overlay effects
  • Lower intensity for a more professional look
  • Try @krblend cl for rainbow and color overlays
  • Experiment with different blend modes for unique styles

Common Overlay Mistakes

  • Using very strong overlays on detailed photos
  • Ignoring blend mode differences
  • Applying overlays at full intensity

Overlay Tool in Pichype

The Overlay Tool is available inside the Pichype photo editing app.

It allows you to apply creative overlay effects, experiment with blending modes, and import your own overlay images through a simple workflow.

Overlay Tool FAQ

What is the difference between filters and overlays?
Filters change the photo directly, while overlays combine an additional image using blending modes.

Can I control overlay strength?
Yes. The intensity slider allows precise control.

Can I use my own images as overlays?
Yes. You can import any image and apply it using a selected blend mode.

This guide explains how to use the Overlay Tool effectively in the Pichype app.