Placeholder layers

Placeholder layers let you visually mark where media should go in your project. Common uses include pre-planning for b-roll, a screen recording, images, or stock footage. They act as flexible placeholders that are easy to customize and replace, helping you plan your project’s structure before final assets are ready.

PlaceholderLayers.png

Add a placeholder layer

  1. Open the Elements Panel in the sidebar.
  2. Locate the Placeholder section, then choose a placeholder icon that best matches the media you'll add later.
    • Media – For B-roll, supporting visuals, or images
    • Camera – For webcam-style clips
    • Screen – For screen recordings or app walkthroughs

 

Customize a placeholder layer

PlaceholderPanel.png

Select a placeholder layer to customize its properties:

Placeholder Notes Add a note to describe what type of media should go in the placeholder. 
Opacity Adjust the placeholder layer opacity.
Size and Position Adjust the placeholder’s dimensions, rotation, and corner rounding using the size and position fields.
Border Add a border for better visibility or styling.
Effects Add effects like shadows to make the placeholder more prominent.
Animation Add custom animations to your placeholder layer.

Replace placeholder layers with media

When you’re ready to replace a placeholder with actual media, follow these steps:

  1. Click on the placeholder to activate it.
  2. Use the Add Media button from the hover menu above the placeholder.
  3. Select one of the following options:
    • Add File: Upload media from your computer.
    • Record: Capture video or audio directly.
    • Add Stock Media: Choose from Descript’s stock media library.
    • Generate Image: Use Descript’s AI tools to create a visual asset.
    • Or, drag and drop media directly onto the placeholder.

You'll see a pulsing blue border as the placeholder is swapped for your media.