How to make in CSS an overlay over an image?

Overlay Basics and Beyond

To create a responsive overlay that fits image sizes, set the container's dimensions. Got text or icons to augment? Font Awesome and tailored typography styles have got you covered.

Unleashing the Overlay: Hover Mechanics

By toggling display: none; to display: block; on hover, the overlay reveals itself, like a CSS magician:

.overlay {
  display: none;
}

.parent:hover .overlay {
  display: block; /* The magic spell is ‘abracadabra’ */
}


What about turning up the drama? CSS transitions make that happen, for a smooth fade-in effect:

.overlay {
  transition: opacity 0.5s ease; /* Feels just like watching the sunset, right? */
  opacity: 0;
}

.parent:hover .overlay {
  opacity: 1;
}


The Underdog Overlay Techniques

CSS filters and background-blend-mode can help achieve that artistic flair. Using brightness(0.2); as a filter gives a darker image effect, not just a plain overlay. Strap your seatbelts, though: Internet Explorer does not support filter:.

img {
  filter: brightness(0.2); /* Familiar with Vantablack? */
}


To blend text or images, use the artistic background-blend-mode property:

.overlay {
  background-blend-mode: multiply; /* Call it the photoshop within CSS */
}


Clever Overlays Without Extra Markup: Pseudo-Elements

::before or ::after pseudo-elements can create overlays without extra HTML elements. Remember to match your pseudo-element to the image size using background-size: cover;.

.parent::after {
  content: '';
  position: absolute;
  /* More styling here. The world is your canvas! */
}


Fusing Image with Overlay for Seamless Design

Make the overlay complement the image by setting the image as the background of the overlay. It's like wearing the perfect dress for the perfect occasion:

.overlay {
  background-image: url('image.jpg');
  background-size: cover; /* Yes, the overlay can also be dressed in style */
}


Positioning Overlaid Content

Overlay elements, such as text and icons, should be absolutely positioned to align perfectly over the image:

.overlay-content {
  position: absolute;
  /* Now play the game of positioning */
}


Cross-browser Compatibility for overlays

The real world is diverse, and so are browsers. Test your overlay's functionality across different browsers to ensure a consistent display. Refer to Can I use for your CSS property compatibility.

Enhancing overlays with Advanced Interaction

To get overlays to do some tricks, like slide-in panels or click-to-reveal info, JavaScript comes to the rescue. Don't fear! Event listeners and CSS class toggling bite only bugs, not humans.

Exploring and Experimenting

Utilize platforms like JSFiddle and CodePen for inspiration and practicing overlay techniques. Code everyday until programming turns into your superpower!