# transparent_background

Render transparent PNGs without adding special background CSS

## How it works

Set `transparent_background` to `true` on a create image request to omit the page background from the rendered image. The parameter works with both HTML/CSS images and URL screenshots.

When the parameter is omitted, the existing CSS-based transparent background method continues to work. Set it explicitly to `false` when you want an opaque background even if the request CSS sets the body background to transparent.

PNG Format Required

Transparency is only supported in PNG format. JPG and WebP images will render with a white background.

## Values

| Value | Description |
| --- | --- |
| `true` | Render the image with a transparent background |
| `false` | Render the image with an opaque background |
| omitted | Use the existing CSS-based background behavior |

## HTML/CSS example

```json
{
  "html": "<div class='logo'>Your logo</div>",
  "css": ".logo { padding: 24px; }",
  "transparent_background": true
}
```

## URL screenshot example

```json
{
  "url": "https://example.com",
  "transparent_background": true
}
```

## cURL example

```bash
curl -X POST https://hcti.io/v1/image -u 'UserID:APIKey' \
     --data-urlencode html="<div class='logo'>Your logo</div>" \
     --data transparent_background=true
```

The parameter can also be saved on a template and used as a default or variation option in an image batch.

For more examples and the existing CSS method, see the [transparent background guide](/guides/styling/transparent-background/).

## Need help?

Talk to a human. Email [support@htmlcsstoimage.com](mailto:support@htmlcsstoimage.com) and we’ll help you get started.