How to join two images into one with FFmpeg?

When merging two images into one using FFmpeg, the primary method involves leveraging FFmpeg's filter functionality, specifically the overlay filter. Below is a step-by-step guide and example:

Step 1: Verify Image Formats

First, ensure you have two image files to merge, such as image1.png and image2.png. Confirm both images are supported by FFmpeg.

Step 2: Use FFmpeg Command to Merge Images

Open the command line tool and execute the following command:

sh
ffmpeg -i image1.png -i image2.png -filter_complex "overlay=x=40:y=30" output.png

Here's an explanation of the command:

• -i image1.png and -i image2.png: These specify the input image files.
• -filter_complex: This indicates that a complex filter will be applied.
• "overlay=x=40:y=30": This is the overlay filter, where x=40:y=30 defines the position (40,30) on the first image where the second image begins overlaying.
• output.png: This is the output file name and format.

Example Explanation

In this example, image2.png will be positioned at the (40,30) coordinate on image1.png. Adjust the x and y values to modify the placement of image2.

Step 3: Check the Output

After running the command, verify the merged result by checking the output.png file in your current directory.

Notes

• Ensure you have the latest version of FFmpeg installed.
• Adjusting the x and y values changes the overlay position.
• If the images differ in size, resize them first to avoid alignment issues.

Using FFmpeg to merge images offers flexibility and power, allowing you to tailor parameters to meet diverse requirements.