Step-by-Step Guide:
Creating a Color Overlay for Image Placeholders
01. Open the Slide Master
- Go to View > Slide Master.
- The Slide Master is where you control the overall design of your presentation, making it the perfect place to set up reusable overlays.
02. Insert a Text Placeholder
- Select Insert Placeholder > Text.
- This creates a placeholder that can be combined with shapes to achieve the overlay effect.
03. Draw and Format Your Overlay Shape
- Draw a rectangle over the area where your image will appear.
- From right click and choose the shape format sub menu, apply a gradient fill or solid color that matches your brand palette.
- This rectangle will act as the overlay layer.
04. Adjust Text Settings
- Go to Shape Format > Text Color and set it to No Fill.
- Remove bullet points to keep the placeholder clean.
- This ensures the overlay doesn’t interfere with text formatting.
05. Merge Shapes to Create the Overlay Effect
- Select both the text placeholder and your rectangle overlay.
- Go to Shape Format > Merge Shapes > Intersect.
- PowerPoint will combine them, creating a custom image placeholder with a built-in color overlay.
Why This Matters
By adding a color overlay to your image placeholders, you:- ✅ Reinforce brand identity with consistent color usage
- ✅ Improve readability of text placed over images
- ✅ Create a polished, professional look that stands out
- ✅ Save time by applying overlays globally through the Slide Master