You can change the color of PNGs in Canva by using the built-in color palette for graphic elements or by applying various editing tools and effects found under the "Edit photo" option for uploaded images.
Canva offers versatile ways to modify the appearance of PNG images, whether they are elements from its vast library or your own uploads. The approach depends on the type of PNG and its original composition.
Understanding PNGs in Canva
Canva handles two primary types of PNGs differently for color modification:
- Canva's Built-in Graphic PNGs: These are typically vector-based or single-color raster graphics (like icons, shapes, illustrations) found within Canva's "Elements" tab. They are designed for easy color customization.
- Uploaded PNGs: These can be personal photos, complex raster images, or single-color graphics you've uploaded. Their recolorability varies. Single-color, vector-like uploaded PNGs may allow direct color changes, while complex photos require effects and adjustments.
Method 1: Recolor Canva's Graphic Elements (Built-in PNGs)
Canva's extensive library of graphic elements, many of which are in PNG format, are designed for quick and easy color changes.
Steps to Recolor Built-in Elements:
- Select the Element: Click on the PNG graphic element you wish to recolor on your design canvas.
- Access Color Palette: A color tile will appear in the toolbar at the top of the editor.
- Choose New Color:
- Click the color tile to open the color palette.
- Select a default color, choose from your brand colors, or click the "+ Add new color" option to use a custom hex code or color picker.
- The element will instantly update to the new color.
Method 2: Changing Colors of Uploaded PNGs
Modifying the color of uploaded PNGs requires using Canva's photo editing tools, as a direct color picker might not always be available, especially for complex images or photographs.
General Steps to Change Color Properties of Uploaded PNGs:
- Upload Your PNG: From the Canva editor, navigate to "Uploads" and upload your PNG image.
- Add to Design: Drag and drop or click on the uploaded PNG to add it to your design canvas.
- Select and Edit: Select the image on your canvas, then click Edit photo from the top toolbar.
- Utilize Editing Options: The editing panel will appear on the left or bottom (depending on your Canva interface). Use the various options available to modify its color properties. These can include:
- Duotone/Photogenic Effects: Apply trendy two-tone color schemes.
- Tint: Overlay a single color hue across the entire image.
- Filters: Apply predefined color and tonal adjustments.
- Adjust: Fine-tune specific color aspects like brightness, contrast, saturation, and hue.
- Background Remover: Remove the background to isolate the main subject, allowing for more focused color adjustments or placing the subject on a new colored background.
- Save Changes: Once you're satisfied with the color modifications, the changes are usually applied automatically. You can then use the modified image in your design or download it to your device.
Specific Tools and Effects for Uploaded PNGs:
Canva provides several powerful tools under the "Edit photo" section that can help you change or influence the colors of your uploaded PNGs:
| Tool/Effect | Purpose | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Duotone | Applies a two-tone color overlay to the image. | Stylize photos or graphics with a modern, artistic color scheme. |
| Tint | Overlays a chosen color hue across the entire image. | Add a subtle color wash or unify the color tone of multiple images. |
| Filters | Predefined color adjustments and effects. | Quickly change the mood or overall color temperature of an image. |
| Adjust | Manual sliders for brightness, contrast, saturation, hue, etc. | Granular control to fine-tune specific color values or shift color tones. |
| Background Remover | Isolates the foreground subject by removing the background. | Essential if you want to recolor only the subject or place it on a new solid color background. |
Practical Tips for Effective Recolorization
- Custom Color Palettes: For consistent branding, utilize Canva's Brand Kit feature to set up custom color palettes. This makes it easy to apply your specific brand colors to any element or image.
- Leverage Transparency: When using color overlays (like Tint or Duotone), consider adjusting the transparency of the effect to achieve a more subtle or blended look.
- Experiment with Layers: If you're trying to recolor a specific part of a complex PNG, you might duplicate the image, remove the background from one, apply effects, and then layer them, using cropping or masking techniques.
- Test and Iterate: Don't be afraid to try different tools and color combinations. Canva's undo feature allows for easy experimentation.
By understanding the distinction between Canva's built-in elements and uploaded images, you can effectively change the color of your PNGs to suit any design need.
