Placeholder Layers

Block out your project before the real footage exists. Drop a placeholder where B-roll, a screen recording, or a stock shot will eventually go, then swap in the finished asset when it’s ready.

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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

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Customize a placeholder layer

Select a placeholder layer to customize its properties:

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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 Media: 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.