How to Create a Simple Before and After Image in Canva

You will learn how to create a simple before and after image in Canva. The layout uses two images side by side with the same subject in different conditions. This is useful for showing results after doing something or after adding something to the picture.

I recommend starting with a Canva template. Open the design options and search for before after to find many ready layouts. Use the design and swap in your own photos for a fast and polished result.

If your comparison needs a boost, see how to brighten an image in Canva here: brighten image steps.

Create a Simple Before and After Image in Canva: build it yourself

I am going to emulate a very simple layout that you can recreate. You can customize it once the structure is in place.

Frames and divider

Add a new page.

Open Elements and search for frame.

Choose a frame style that fits your design.

Place the frame on the left and size it to occupy half of the canvas.

Leave a small gap in the middle, or adjust that later.

Duplicate the frame to create the right side.

Add a simple vertical line from the shape options.

Rotate it to 90 degrees.

Place the line in the middle and extend it to span the canvas height.

Labels and contrast

Add a text label for Before.

Increase the size so it is easy to read, and make it bold.

Apply a background effect and set the background color to white.

Duplicate the text and place it on the other side.

Change the text to After.

Change the text color to white and set the background to black for strong contrast.

Align both labels so they sit exactly in the middle of their sides.

If you want the labels to pop even more, try a playful style like a balloon effect: balloon text effect.

Add your photos

Open Photos and search for your subject.

Drag an image into the left frame for the before state.

Drag a second image into the right frame for the after state.

Polish the result

If you want to shift tones to match the mood of each side, adjust the hues and tints with this guide: change color in Canva.

Refine spacing for the middle gap if needed.

Confirm both images and labels are balanced and aligned.

Final thoughts

Templates in Canva make the process simple, fast, and good looking, and they are made by pros. If you prefer to build your own, frames, a centered divider, and clear labels give you a clean before and after layout. Add your photos, adjust contrast, and you are done.