alpha channel

Image transparency data

In digital imaging, the alpha channel stores transparency information for each pixel.

While color channels define red, green, and blue values, the alpha channel determines how opaque or see-through a pixel appears.

A fully transparent alpha lets background layers show through; a fully opaque alpha blocks them completely.

The logo has an alpha channel so it can overlay any background.

compositing

transparency

State of being see-through

maskingConcealing by covering
matteNon-reflective surface finish
keyingInputting via buttons

chroma key · layering · overlay · composite · render · straight · background removal · cutout · extraction · isolation

technical

bitmap

Pixel-based image format

rasterGrid of pixels
PNGLossless web graphics format
GIFAnimated image format

TIFF · lossless · pixel · bit depth · color depth · antialiasing · feathering · interpolation · threshold · luminance

opacity

transparency

State of being see-through

translucencyPermitting diffused light passage
semitransparentAllowing partial light passage
fadeLose intensity gradually

ghosting · falloff · gradient · soft edges · blur · haze · frosted · veil · sheer · see-through

Categories

digital graphicspixel, vector, pixel art, bitmap, raster
digital imagingpixel, pixels, resolution, JPEG, bitmap
image editingPhotoshop, GIMP, Canva, Snapseed, Figma
SFXCGI, VFX, visual effects, compositing, green screen
Bit Depthbit depth, color depth, 8-bit, 16-bit, 24-bit
chroma keygreen screen, blue screen, chroma key, keying, spill

Opposites

channel type in image composition

alpha channelcolor channel

Isolated hue data layer

green channel · chroma

transparency vs. opacity data

alpha channelopacity

Impermeability to light

Family

alpha, channel, alphas, channels, channeled, channeling, alphabet, alphabetic, alphabetical

Familiarity: Top 500,000
Profile: Used worldwide · Timeless · Rated G