Walkthrough of editing specific templates in canva

Introduction

In this article, we will explore the process of editing specific templates in Canva, focusing on how to effectively integrate images into your design. Regardless of the color scheme you've chosen, the following guidelines and techniques remain applicable.

Understanding the Template Structure

When working on a template, it's essential to start with the right type of photo that fits the design. The template often requires a full-length body shot or, alternatively, a half-length shot. This is particularly important for templates that have a cutout effect, which necessitates sufficient body visibility.

Choosing the Right Photo

Full-Length Body Shot: This is the preferred image type for many designs. When inserting the photo, ensure you move the image into the correct corner of the template. The graphic space typically has a defined rectangle; moving the photo into this corner will allow it to fit seamlessly.
Half-Length Shot: If a full-length image is not available, a half-length shot can also be useful. However, be mindful of how much of the body is obscured or cut out in the design.
Head Shot Ineffectiveness: Photos that only display the head or upper body will not work well with this type of template. While you can resize them, it will not produce the desired effect due to the constraints of the graphic frame.

Editing Elements and Changing Colors

Inside the Canva workspace, you may encounter various elements that require adjustments. For example, if the design includes shapes or other graphic elements, you might need to change their colors to match your overall theme.

Adjusting Element Colors: Click on the top graphic element, and you can easily change its color by selecting from the color bar. For graphics that are less accessible, click on the position tab and then select the item in the layers to change its color.
Working with Layers: Sometimes, elements may be grouped which can complicate edits. If you see the option to ungroup items, do so to manage them easily.

Handling Backgrounds

When working with images, background visibility plays a crucial role. If your uploaded photo has a transparent background, you may notice odd graphics appearing behind your main subject.

Removing Backgrounds: If your photo has an undesirable background, consider using a background remover tool. Canva Pro comes with this feature, but if you don't have it, you can use external websites to achieve the same result.
Using a Fixed Background: To maintain a clean and professional look, utilize a fixed background instead of one that is subject to cutouts. You can opt for a solid color or a subtle gradient to better showcase your design elements.

Finalizing Your Design

Once your image is appropriately sized and placed, and the background is set, you can now finalize your design. Save your work regularly and consider creating a downloadable version with the intended background.

Feel free to reach out for assistance if you encounter any challenges during your design process. Happy designing!

Keywords

Canva
Photo Types
Full-Length Body Shot
Half-Length Shot
Head Shot
Layer Management
Background Removal
Template Editing

FAQ

Q: What type of photos should I use for editing templates in Canva?
A: It's recommended to use a full-length body shot or a half-length shot for better fitting within the template design.

Q: Can I use a head shot in my design?
A: While it is possible to resize a head shot, it's usually not effective for templates that require more body space.

Q: How can I change the color of graphic elements in Canva?
A: You can easily change the color of a graphic by clicking on it and using the color bar. If the element is grouped, you may need to ungroup it first.

Q: What should I do if my photo has a transparent background?
A: You can either remove the background or add a fixed background to ensure a clean look in your design. Use background removal tools if needed.

Q: Where can I find a background remover tool if I don’t have Canva Pro?
A: You can use external websites that provide background removal services without requiring registration, such as the link mentioned in the article.