Canva blends images by stacking one photo on top of another and lowering its transparency in the layers panel, which fades the two together across the frame. If you just want two full photos placed side by side instead, a dedicated merge tool does that in fewer steps.
How to layer and blend images in Canva
- Upload both images to your Canva project.
- Drag the first image onto the canvas as your base layer.
- Drag the second image on top, resizing it to overlap the first.
- Select the top image, open the Edit Image panel, and lower its transparency.
- Adjust position and transparency until the two images blend the way you want, then download.
Canva's layer order matters
Canva stacks elements in the order you add them, with the newest on top. If your blend looks wrong, check the layers panel first: the image you want faded should sit above the one you want as the base.
When Canva is the right tool, and when it isn't
| Canva | Merge tool | |
|---|---|---|
| Fading two images together with transparency | Yes | No, that's a blend, not a merge |
| Two full photos placed side by side, no fade | Possible, but fiddly with frames | Yes, purpose-built for this |
| Adding text, stickers, or brand templates on top | Yes | No |
Frequently asked questions
- How do you blend two images together in Canva?
- Stack one image on top of another on the canvas, then lower the top image's transparency in the Edit Image panel until the two fade into each other.
- Do I need a Canva Pro subscription to blend images?
- No. Layering and adjusting transparency are available on Canva's free plan, so a paid subscription isn't required for a basic blend.
- Is Canva good for placing two photos side by side without blending?
- It works, but requires manually resizing and aligning frames. A dedicated merge tool places photos side by side automatically without a design project.