A Quick Tutorial on How to Lower Opacity in Google Slides 

  • 3 February 2025
  • 7 mins read

Table of Content

Table of Contents

IGoogle Slides is a resourceful tool used to create engaging and eye-catching slides. One well-known feature is adjusting the opacity of images, shapes, or texts. Lowering opacity in Google Slides creates a faded background effect or adds subtle design touches to your slides. We'll walk through this guide to explore how to lower opacity in Google Slides.

How to Lower Opacity in Google Slides

Steps to lower opacity for texts, shapes, or images in Google Slides:

Lower Opacity of Text Boxes or Shapes

  1. Go to Insert > Shape and draw a shape, or go to Insert > Text Box to add a text box.
  2. Right-click the shape or text box and choose Format Options from the menu.
  3. In the Format Options panel, expand the Fill color.
  4. Select a color and use a Transparency slider to lower opacity.

Lower Opacity of Images

  1. Go to Insert > Image, upload an image from the device, or search it.
  2. Select the image and click on Format options in the toolbar. 
  3. Expand the Adjustments sections and use the Transparency slider to adjust the opacity.
  4. Combine semi-transparent images, texts, or shapes to create a layered look.
  5. Use Arrange > Order to move elements forward or backward for better placement. 

How to Change Opacity in Google Slides on iPad

Modifying opacity in Google Slides on iPad is quite different from desktop. Here's how:

  1. Launch the Google Slides app on your iPad and open the presentation you want to edit.
  2. Tap on the image, text box, or shape you want to edit.
  3. Once selected, tap on the paint bucket icon for text shapes or image editing options for images.
  4. Fill the color and adjust the Transparency slider for shapes or texts to lower opacity.
  5. For images, tap Adjustments and move the Transparency slider to the desired level.
  6. Check your changes and adjust them as needed using the steps mentioned above.

Tips for Adjusting Opacity Levels in Google Slides

Contrast 

Ensure text remains readable over a transparent background by using high-contrast colors. 

Layering Effects

Use transparency with gradients or overlays to create depth.

Uniform Design

Maintain consistency by applying similar opacity levels across related elements.

Why Adjust Opacity on Google Slides

Lowering opacity can:

Visual Layers

Create overlapping elements while maintaining clarity.

Enhance Focus

Fade backgrounds to enhance text visibility. 

Add Design Depth

Introduce subtle effects for a professional look.

Google Slides vs. Microsoft Powerpoint

Features Google SlidesMicrosoft Powerpoint
Accessibility Cloud-based, accessible on any device with an internet connection.Desktop-based with cloud access via OneDrive or Microsoft 365.
Collaboration Real-time collaboration with multiple users.Collaboration available only via OneDrive or SharePoint.
TemplatesEasy to customize, limited built-in templates.Extensive library of professional templates.
Cost Free with a Google Account (up to 15 GB cloud storage).Requires Microsoft subscription or standalone purchase.
Ease-of-useUser-friendly, best for beginners.More complex, best for advanced users.

How to Change the Opacity of a Background in Google Slides

Follow these steps to change the opacity of a background in Google Slides:

  1. Insert the shape in the background by navigating to Insert > Shape and draw a rectangle covering the entire slide.
  2. Right-click on the shape, select Format Options and expand the Fill color option.
  3. Use the Transparency slider to lower the opacity. 
  4. Send the shape back by right-clicking on the shape, choosing Order > Send to Back, and layer it behind the content.
  5. This method gives you control over background opacity since the default side background lacks transparency. 

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Topics that may interest you

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • How can the opacity of an image in Google Docs be reduced?

    Plus

    Insert the image, click on it, select Image Options, then adjust the Transparency slider under the Adjustments tab.

  • How do I remove the image background in Google Slides?

    Plus

    Insert the image, click on it, select Format Options > Adjustments, and increase the transparency level, or use third-party tools for background removal.

  • How do you make Google Forms transparent?

    Plus

    Google Forms doesn't support transparency. Use Formfacade or custom CSS in a linked website to apply transparency.

In Summary!

Lowering opacity in Google Slides is a simple yet effective way to enhance your presentations. Adjusting transparency levels for professional or personal use can help you achieve polished and visually stunning results. Start modifying opacity today and transform your slides into engaging presentations.