An overlay in photography is a secondary image, texture, or graphic that gets layered onto your original photo during post-processing—typically using editing software like Photoshop. Think of it as adding a transparent sheet of visual effects over your base image to enhance its mood, depth, or artistic impact.
Back in the early days, if photographers wanted to add texture to an image, they would create effects such as overexposure, scratching negatives with pins, using sandpaper to affect the negative, and even staining the paper before it’s exposed.
But now, in the current world of digital photography, overlays can simply be dragged and dropped onto an image in Photoshop and then adjusted using blending modes and opacity for various effects.
No matter what style of photography, there is an overlay for every possible look you’re trying to create, ranging from sky overlays, flowers, sun flares, falling snow, bokeh lights, and even facial hair.
What Can Overlays Do to Your Image?
Photographers use overlays to add texture and elements that weren’t in the image as it was shot. In the photography world, this means an extra layer can be added in the editing or post-production process to add or enhance the look of the photo.
Overlays transform a photograph and can work to improve an otherwise uninspiring image or enhance it dramatically using the power of textures and layers.
Whether you’re trying to create an eerie fog effect, a whimsical fairy garden, or add beautiful falling leaves to your image, there is an overlay for literally every possible theme!
Overlays from the Rain and Fog Overlay Collection
Where to Find Overlays?
You can find my favorite overlays (mentioned above), including example images and tutorial videos, at Pretty Presets & Actions. They have the BEST cutting-edge Photoshop Overlays that will add drama and magic to your photos quickly and easily!
Once you download your overlays, simply install and access them in Photoshop to add texture and effects by adjusting the contrast, colors, filters, and resolution to create the perfect look for your image.
