What is the best way to create this effect using a normal img element in Webflow instead of setting the image as a background and adding an overlay?
TL;DR
- Wrap the img element in a relative-positioned div.
- Add an absolutely positioned overlay div on top with full coverage and a semi-transparent background or blend mode.
- Ensure correct z-index layering and responsive sizing; optionally add text or icons using flexbox or absolute positioning.
To replicate a background image overlay effect (such as a dark tint or color overlay) using a regular img element in Webflow, you'll need to place a colored div on top of the image with appropriate blending or transparency. Here's how to do it cleanly:
1. Wrap the Image in a Container Div
- Add a Div Block to the canvas and give it a class (e.g.,
Image Wrapper). - Inside the div, add your Image element (not background image).
- Set the position of the wrapper div to
relative.
2. Overlay a Div on Top of the Image
- Inside the same wrapper div (above or below the image in the Navigator), add another Div Block named something like
Image Overlay. - Set its position to
absolute, then set top/right/bottom/left all to0– this will make it cover the entire image. - Give it a background color (e.g., black) and adjust opacity (e.g., 50%) or use background-blend modes (like
multiply,overlay, orscreen) for more advanced effects.
3. Layer the Overlay Above the Image
- Ensure the image’s z-index is lower than the overlay (or don’t set a z-index on the image, and give the overlay a z-index of
1or higher). - Set the z-index of the wrapper to
0if needed to keep layering controlled.
4. Adjust Responsiveness
- Make sure the image is set to 100% width or set a fixed dimension as needed.
- The overlay will match any size changes because it stretches to the wrapper.
5. Add Text or Icons (Optional)
- You can add text, icons, or buttons inside the wrapper (on top of the overlay) and position them with flexbox or absolute positioning for callouts on hover or static display.
Summary
To create an overlay on a regular img element in Webflow, wrap the image in a relative-positioned div, add an absolute-positioned overlay div on top with a semi-transparent color or blend mode, and fine-tune the layering and positioning. This mimics background image overlays but maintains full control of image tags and responsiveness.