How to Use Multiply Blend Mode in Kdenlive

This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to use the “Multiply” blending mode in Kdenlive to darken a video scene. By layering a solid color, texture, or secondary video over your base footage and applying a composition transition, you can easily control the shadows and overall exposure of your project.

Step 1: Prepare Your Timeline Tracks

To use a blending mode, you need at least two video tracks in your Kdenlive timeline: 1. Place your primary video footage on the lower track (e.g., V1). 2. Place the darkening element—such as a dark gray/black color clip, a vignette, or a texture—directly above it on the upper track (e.g., V2). 3. Align the clips so they overlap for the duration of the scene you want to darken.

Step 2: Add the Composite and Transform Transition

In Kdenlive, blending modes are applied using transitions between tracks: 1. Hover your mouse over the bottom-left corner of the clip on the top track (V2). 2. Click the green/yellow dot that appears, or right-click the clip and select Add Transition > Composite and Transform. 3. A transition block will appear in the timeline between the two tracks. Click on this transition block to select it.

Step 3: Change the Blend Mode to Multiply

Once the transition is selected, configure its settings in the Properties panel (usually located in the top-right or top-left of the interface): 1. Locate the Compositing or Blend Mode dropdown menu (it defaults to “Over” or “Normal”). 2. Click the dropdown and select Multiply from the list of blending modes. 3. The preview monitor will immediately update. The Multiply mode mathematically multiplies the colors of the top and bottom layers, resulting in a darker image where light areas are toned down and dark areas are deepened.

Step 4: Adjust the Intensity

If the darkening effect is too intense, you can easily fine-tune it: 1. With the Composite and Transform transition still selected, locate the Opacity slider in the Properties panel. 2. Lower the opacity percentage (e.g., to 50% or 70%) until you achieve the desired level of darkness for your scene.