How to Replace the Background Image in Canva

Adding a custom background in Canva helps your social posts, class promos, and client content look polished and on-brand. This quick guide walks fitness professionals and personal trainers through how to swap the background image in a template in just a few simple steps.

How to Replace the Background Photo with your Branding Photo

Step 1: Upload Your Image

Click Uploads on the left sidebar in Canva.
Select Upload Files to add your branding or workout image.

Step 2: Replace the Background

Drag and drop your uploaded photo onto the existing background in the design.

Step 3: Make Adjustments to Your Photo

• Adjust Brightness: Use the Transparency tool to make your photo brighter or darker.
• Reposition Image: Click and drag your background photo to adjust placement or crop it for a better fit.

How to Replace the Background Photo with One of Your Gym or Local Area

Step 1: Locate a Photo of Your Gym, Training Spot, or Local Area

In Canva’s Elements tab, search for your city, neighborhood, or a local landmark.
If you’re in a smaller town that doesn’t appear in search, try using a nearby city name or a general keyword like “gym” or “park.”

• Choose photos that match your training style — a studio interior for boutique trainers, trails for outdoor coaches, a beach for bootcamps, or a skyline for city-based sessions.
• If you can’t find what you’re looking for, use a photo from your phone’s camera roll or visit Unsplash.com for free, high-quality images.

Step 2: Upload Your Image

Click Uploads on the left sidebar in Canva.
Select Upload Files to add your chosen image.

Step 3: Replace the Background

Drag and drop your uploaded photo onto the existing background in your design.

Step 4: Make Adjustments to Your Photo

• Adjust Brightness: Use the Transparency slider to make your photo brighter or darker.
• Reposition Image: Click and drag your background photo to adjust placement or cropping for a balanced look.

How to Make Your Photo Brighter or Darker

• Click the background photo, then select the Transparency icon (checkerboard icon) in the top toolbar.
• Click and drag the slider to increase or decrease transparency until the brightness looks balanced.
• All The Social Trainer (TST) designs default to a black background color to improve readability of elements and text.

How to Adjust the Positioning of your Background Photo

Double-click the background photo.

• Click and drag the photo (left, right, up, or down) to reposition it.
• Click and drag the corners of the photo to resize it as needed.

If text is covering important parts of the image:

• Move the text to a different area.
• Reduce the text size slightly.
• Adjust the position of your photo until the layout looks balanced.

✅ That’s it! If you need help, email support@thesocialtrainer.com. We’re happy to assist!