What types of photos work best for text behind image?

Photos with clear subjects against distinct backgrounds work best for text behind image effects. Ideal photos include: portraits and headshots, product photography, pet photos, car images, food photography, and any image with good contrast between the subject and background. The AI handles complex edges like hair, fur, and fine details automatically.

Can I add multiple text layers behind the image?

Yes! You can add unlimited text layers to your design. Each text layer can be independently set to appear in front of the subject, behind the subject, or as knockout text (where the image shows through the letters). Mix and match different modes for creative multi-layered designs that stand out.

Does text behind image work on mobile devices?

Yes, our text behind image tool works perfectly on all devices including iPhones, Android phones, iPads, and tablets. The tool is fully responsive and optimized for touch screens. Create professional text behind person effects directly from your phone browser—no app download required.

What's the difference between text behind image and knockout text?

Text behind image places your text BEHIND the subject so the person/object appears in front of the text, creating a 3D depth effect. Knockout text (also called cutout text or transparent text) makes the text itself transparent so you can see the background IMAGE through the letters. Both effects are available in our free tool—you can even combine them!

Overlay Text

Text Behind Image Online Free

Name: Overlay Text - Free Text Behind Object & Knockout Text Tool
Availability: InStock
Author: Overlay Text

Add text behind any person or object in just 20 seconds. Our AI automatically detects subjects and creates stunning 3D text effects—no Photoshop skills required.

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30,000+ creators•No watermarks•Works on mobile

Text behind person effect - AI automatically places text behind subject

Text behind object example for marketing and social media

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Professional text behind subject for YouTube thumbnails

Automated text behind photo effect with AI detection

Text behind model example - 3D depth effect

How to Add Text Behind Image (3 Steps)

Forget complex masking in Photoshop. Our text behind image tool uses advanced AI to identify the main subject in your photo—whether it's a person, pet, or product—and instantly places your text behind it.

Upload Your Photo

Drag and drop any image with a clear subject. Works with portraits, product shots, pet photos, and more.

Add Text & Select "Behind" Mode

Type your text, choose fonts & colors, then click the star icon to enable text behind image mode.

AI Does the Magic

Our AI automatically detects the subject and positions your text behind it. Download in seconds!

Try Text Behind Image Free →

AI automatically detecting person for text behind image effect - how it works

Popular Uses for Text Behind Image

See how creators use our text behind person and text behind object effects

YouTube Thumbnails

Create eye-catching thumbnails that get more clicks. Text behind person effects make your face pop while keeping titles readable.

Instagram Posts

Stand out in the feed with professional 3D text effects. Perfect for quotes, announcements, and branded content.

Product Marketing

Add text behind products for professional e-commerce images, ads, and promotional materials that convert.

TikTok & Reels

Create scroll-stopping covers for your short-form video content with text behind subject effects.

Blog & Website

Design professional featured images and headers with text layered behind subjects.

Personal Photos

Add meaningful quotes, dates, or names behind loved ones in your personal photos and memories.

Text Behind Image: Our Tool vs Photoshop

See why 30,000+ creators choose our free tool over expensive software

Feature

Our Tool

Photoshop

Time to create

20 seconds

15-30 minutes

Cost

100% Free

$22.99/month

Skills required

None

Advanced

Subject detection

Automatic (AI)

Manual masking

Works on mobile

Yes ✓

Installation

None (browser)

Required

Text Behind Image: Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about creating text behind person and text behind object effects

What is the text behind image effect?

The text behind image effect (also called text behind object or text behind person) is a popular design technique where text appears to go BEHIND a subject in your photo, creating a stunning 3D layering effect. This effect is widely used on Instagram, YouTube thumbnails, TikTok covers, and professional marketing materials because it adds depth, visual interest, and makes designs look more professional.

Is this text behind image tool completely free?

Yes, our text behind image tool is 100% free to use forever. There are no watermarks on your downloads, no hidden fees, and no signup required to start creating. Free users can export at 480px resolution, signed-up users get 720px, and Pro users unlock full 4K resolution for professional use.

How do I put text behind a person in a photo?

Creating text behind a person is incredibly simple with our AI tool: 1) Upload your photo containing a person, 2) Add a text layer using the + button, 3) Click the star icon to enable 'Behind' mode, 4) Our AI automatically detects the person and places your text behind them. The entire process takes about 20 seconds with no manual masking required!

Does this work for text behind objects too?

Absolutely! Our AI-powered text behind image tool can detect and work with people, animals, pets, products, buildings, cars, food items, and most distinct subjects in photos. Text behind object effects work great for product photography, automotive images, pet photos, food photography, and any image with a clear subject.

Can I use text behind image for YouTube thumbnails?

Yes! Text behind image is one of the most effective techniques for creating high-CTR YouTube thumbnails. It makes your text pop while keeping the subject prominent, creating a professional 3D look that catches viewers' attention. Many top YouTubers including MrBeast, MKBHD, and others use this effect. You can export in high resolution perfect for YouTube (1280x720 or higher).

How is this different from creating text behind image in Photoshop?

In Photoshop, creating text behind a person requires 10+ manual steps: duplicate layers, create layer masks, carefully paint around the subject, position text between layers, refine edges, etc. This process takes 15-30 minutes even for experienced users. Our AI does all of this automatically in just 20 seconds with the same professional result—no design skills or expensive software needed.

Related Free Tools

Knockout Text Generator →

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Generate 5 creative captions for any photo instantly with AI.

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Join 30,000+ creators using our AI-powered tool to add text behind person, objects, and subjects in just 20 seconds.

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