Photo Overlay Ideas for Stories
Overlays can add context and texture without changing the underlying photo. The browser preview currently offers timestamp, aura-style text, film-counter, good-vibes text, and grain examples; the remaining ideas below are conceptual inspiration only.
1. Timestamp
The classic date-and-time stamp. Gives every photo a documentary feel — like a disposable camera from 1998. Works especially well for travel journals and daily life posts.
Open available overlay previews →2. 100% Aura ✨
A playful gradient badge in the corner that reads "100% Aura". Treat it as decorative text rather than a measured score.
Open available overlay previews →3. Film Grain
Subtle noise texture can make digital photos feel more analog. Start at low opacity and adjust for the image.
Open available overlay previews →4. Film Counter
"▸ 24 — Kodak 400" in the corner. Makes your story look like it was shot on 35mm film. Pairs perfectly with warm filters.
Open available overlay previews →5. Color Border
A restrained border can frame a story without adding hidden metadata. Adjust its color and width to match the image.
Open available overlay previews →6. Vignette
Subtle darkening at the edges that draws the eye to the center. A pro photography technique now available as a one-tap overlay. Best at 20-40% intensity.
Open available overlay previews →7. Good Vibes Text
"~ good vibes only ~" in a handwriting font. The quintessential story overlay for lifestyle content. Customizable text and font family.
Open available overlay previews →8. Cinematic Letterbox
Black bars top and bottom (2.35:1 ratio). Instantly makes any photo look like a movie still. The easiest way to upgrade a casual shot.
Open available overlay previews →9. Light Leak
Warm or cool light flares that simulate real lens imperfections. Best applied at low opacity (10-20%) for a subtle, authentic look.
Open available overlay previews →10. Dust & Scratches
Vintage texture overlay that adds decades of character. Combine with sepia or fade filter for maximum retro effect.
Open available overlay previews →11. Polaroid Frame
White border frame that turns any photo into an instant-camera print. Leave the bottom wider for the classic Polaroid look.
Open available overlay previews →12. Minimal Date
Just the date in a small, clean font — no time, no extra info. The most understated timestamp option. Perfect for minimalist aesthetic feeds.
Open available overlay previews →Open available overlay previews
Use the currently available browser examples and review the exported result before sharing.