Use the Selection tool to select the text frame containing the text you want to affect.
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Apply transparency effects to text
Last updated on
Jun 2, 2026
Learn how to use blending modes and opacity adjustments to create translucent text effects within Adobe InDesign.
Transparency effects let you control how text interacts with underlying objects through opacity, blending modes, and more. You can apply effects to text independently from its frame, creating unique overlays and visual effects.
Select Object > Effects > Transparency.
In the Effects dialog box, select Text from the Settings for dropdown menu.
Note
Select Object if you want the settings you select to apply to the text frame’s stroke and fill as well as the text inside it.
Adjust the Opacity slider to set transparency level (100% = opaque, 0% = invisible).
Select a blending mode from the Mode menu to control how text colors interact with underlying objects.
Select Isolate Blending to prevent blending modes from being applied past the bottom of a group.
Select Knockout Group to prevent the elements of a group from showing through each other.
Select additional Transparency options, including Drop Shadow, Inner Shadow, Outer Glow, Inner Glow, Bevel and Emboss, Satin, Basic Feather, Directional Feather, and Gradient Feather.
Select Preview to view changes in real time.
Select OK.
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