Transparent Image Has White Background
If you imported a PNG image file that had a transparent background in its original format, but is no longer transparent as an asset, there can be a few underlying causes. This article identifies the ways that PNG files can lose their transparent background and the proper way to preserve their transparency.
In this article:
Uploading PNG Files to Switcher Cloud
When you upload an asset to Switcher Cloud using the Switcher Studio Dashboard, you have the option to upload the file as Full Screen or Overlay. If you select Full Screen, your file will be uploaded as a full screen asset with no transparency. If you select Overlay and your original file has a transparent background, the asset in Switcher Studio will maintain the transparency.
To upload a transparent PNG file correctly:
- Log in to the Switcher Studio Dashboard.
- Click Cloud Assets in the left sidebar.
- Drag and drop files into the upload box, or click the box to select the file(s).
- Under the "Layer Option" select Overlay.
- Click Upload.

Importing PNG Files From Switcher Cloud
When you import a file from Switcher Cloud, it is important to select how you plan to use the file. If you choose to import a file without selecting the proper use, it can result in the image losing its transparency.
To import an PNG from Switcher Cloud:
- Tap the blue (+) button in the sources panel
- Tap Image Overlays.
- Tap Image as Lower Third.
- Tap Switcher Cloud.
- Tap the PNG you want to import.
- Make any adjustments in the Properties Editor (leaving the Layering set to Overlay) and tap Save.
iCloud Files Issues
Files that are stored in iCloud lose their transparent backgrounds. If you import an asset from iCloud, it will have a solid colored background in Switcher Studio. We recommend storing and importing asset files outside of iCloud. You can store them in your Photos app, in a third-party file hosting service like Dropbox or Google Drive, or on Switcher Cloud.
Note: If you are still having issues with transparency after following the steps listed above, reach out to our support team at support@switcherstudio.com.
Keyword(s): transparent, image, png, upload, import