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The background of a slide is typically a single layer that can be a solid color, gradient, image, video, video device, or visualization. However, you have the option to include multiple layers for a single background. As an example, you can have a background that has as its first layer a gradient fill followed by an image that has alpha-channel transparency. In this case, the gradient will be visible through the transparent areas of the image. Each layer can have it's own set of layered effects and then a final effect can be applied to all of the layers.

 

The margin of the background can be set relative to the default margins or to the entire slide. Each layer of the background can be made relative to the default margins, entire slide, or the margins of the background. Additionally, the final effect can also be specified to be applied over the entire area of the slide, the default margins, or the background margins.

 

As mentioned above, a background typically has just one layer. If you wish to use multiple layers, ensure that the Use Multiple Fill Layers control is checked.

 

The Base Color is the bottom-most color applied before drawing all other layers. By default this is transparent, which results in a black canvas for typical displays. It's best to leave this setting as transparent unless there is a compelling reason to change it. Some reasons to change it may be to specify a chroma-key color for video mixing. The transparent base color is particularly important when using a DeckLink card for text-over-live-video overlay.

 

Buttons are available to help you quickly set the most common types of backgrounds: Solid Color, Gradient, Image, Video, Improv (for Background Improv). You can use the Fill button to select from any other fill type (all backgrounds are simply fills) including visualizations.

 

After adding or selecting a layer, the properties relevant to that fill type are made visible to the right of the layers list. Layers can be turned off or on by using the check box next to their name. Layers can be re-ordered by clicking and dragging. To specify effects for a layer, click on the Layer Effects tab. Here, you can add one or more effects. Read more about effects selection. Typically, a background layer will be placed relative to the background margins at 0%. Each layer, however, can have it's own margin settings. To change the margin setting for a layer, click on the Layer Margins tab. From here you can set the layer margins.

 

To specify an effect to be applied after all layers are rendered, click on the Background Effects tab. Here, you can add one or more effects. Read more about effects selection. To specify the margin area of the background, click the Background Margins tab. From here you can set the background margins.