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Why a transparent photo strip background turns dark
Check the background in the destination, not only the editor.
A cut-out strip can look clean on one screen and acquire a dark surrounding area on another. The transparency and the surface used to display it are separate parts of the result.
Know the format’s capability
MDN’s format guide documents transparency support in PNG and the differing capabilities of other image formats. That capability does not require every destination to show the image against the background you expected.
Evidence: Technical documentation
Test two backgrounds
Our check opens the same file against a light surface and a dark one. Look at the outer edge, captions and any white space that was intended to remain opaque. A border painted white is different from an empty transparent area, even when both looked white in the original editor.
Make a predictable sharing copy
If the recipient needs a conventional full rectangle, compose the strip onto your chosen solid background and save a separate copy. Keep the transparent version for uses that need it. Reopen the saved result and inspect the corners before sharing or printing. Do not assume a messaging preview represents the file exactly.
Sources & further reading
Sources for the specific facts and product descriptions above. Our worked examples, interpretations and practical suggestions are original editorial guidance.
- MDN — image file formatsTechnical documentation