# Template Superimpose

Gilles
Caulier

    caulier dot gilles at free.fr

Gerhard
Kulzer

    gerhard at kulzer.net

2005-02-26
0.7.2

The digiKam image plugin Template Superimpose is a tool for superimposing a template to an image.

KDE
Digikam

# Introduction

Images or graphics can be used to create PNG template files containing borders, frames, and composite images that can be added to or superimposed on other images. Template files aren't installed along with the digiKam but can be found at this url. Download the content to the digiKam album database and set the Root Template Directory (see Using the Plugin section below).

The Image Template Superimpose Image Editor menu is used to apply templates to an image.

## To Create a New Templates

New templates can be created using a paint program, and the template must be stored on disk. Colored areas in the image will become a mask that will later be superimposed over another selected image. PNG template files must be created in RGB mode with Alpha channel. This channel is used to create transparent areas in the image who will become empty. The selected image upon which the template file is superimposed will appear in place of the empty areas in the template.

There is no restriction about template size and orientation. You must use PNG file format with max. compression to reduce template file size. If you want to add your template creation to the digiKam templates database, please send a mail to this digiKam mailing-list digikam-users@lists.sourceforge.net.

## Using the Plugin

If you're using the plugin for the first time, you must set your local templates directory using the Root Directory button. Select the folder where you have copied the template files. The plugin remembers this setting at the next instance.

When the root template directory is set, a folder tree view is created which displays the template directories structure. Choosing one will update the templates preview bar automatically. Choose one for apply this on the preview area

Under the preview area, three buttons give you control over the template zoom and position on your image:

Zoom In: this button increases the image zoom factor. The image is centered to the current mouse position. Validate with the right mouse button.

Zoom Out: this button decreases the image zoom factor. The image is centered to the current mouse position. Validate with the right mouse button.

Move: this button must be used to pan the image position under the template. Click and drag the image with the right mouse button.

Click on the OK button to apply the template to the current image. This one will be automatically resized to the template size.

## The plugin in action

The Template Superimpose dialog tool in action is available below.

The Template Superimpose Tool Dialog