How to Combine Two Images: A Step-by-Step Guide for JPG, PNG & AI Tools

Part 1: What Does "Combine Two Images" Mean?

Before we start, let's keep things simple. To combine two images means joining two separate pictures into one single file. Some people call it merging, others say stitching, and some even call it layering. These are all ways of saying we are combining two separate files into a single file. This can be done in different ways depending on your goal.

Types of Image Combinations

1. Side by Side

This is the most common way. You place one photo on the left and the other on the right. In other words, you place two photos side by side horizontally.

This style works great for:

• Before/after shots
• Product comparisons
• Tutorials

2. Top and Bottom

Similar to side-by-side, but this one is vertical. You can use this layout for:

• Step-by-step instructions
• Mobile screenshots
• Story posts

3. Overlay or Blend

This is a bit "fancier." You place one image on top of another with some transparency. For example, you might add a ghostly texture to a forest to make it look spooky. This looks more artistic and creative.

4. Collage Style

This involves taking many photos (or just two) and arranging them in a creative, artistic pattern. This is popular for Instagram or posters.

5. Into One PDF

Sometimes, combining doesn't mean making a new picture. Instead, it means putting two images onto different pages of a single PDF document. This is helpful for reports, assignments, or arranging personal documents.

Supported Formats

Most tools allow you to combine two images in these formats:

• JPG / JPEG
• PNG
• TIFF
• PDF

Part 2: Best Basic Tools to Combine Two Images

You don't always need a fancy, expensive program to merge photos. Sometimes, the best tools are the ones already on your computer.

1. Paint (Windows)

If you use a Windows computer, you already have Paint installed. In fact, it's one of the simplest image editors ever made. Although it looks basic, it can still help you combine two images quickly without any extra downloads. Paint works best for straightforward tasks. For example, you can paste one image, expand the canvas, and then paste the second image next to it. It may feel old-school; however, it's fast and surprisingly useful when you just need a quick merge for homework, forms, or screenshots.

2. Preview (Mac)

Mac users, on the other hand, have Preview, which is more powerful than most people realize. While many think it's only for viewing photos or PDFs, it can actually help you combine two images in a few easy steps. For instance, you can open multiple images, drag them into one document, and export them together. Additionally, you can use Preview to combine multiple images into a single PDF. Therefore, it's especially helpful for students, business documents, or scanned papers.

Part 3: Best AI Tools to Combine Two Images

Basic tools work fine. However, they still require manual effort. For example, you have to resize, align, and adjust everything yourself. Artificial intelligence, on the other hand, has changed the game. This means, instead of adjusting everything manually, AI understands what is in the photo and helps you merge them naturally.

Let's look at the best AI-powered options available in 2026.

1. HitPaw FotorPea - AI Canvas Editing

HitPaw FotorPea is one of the easiest AI photo editors available for PC and Mac. Instead of forcing you to manually edit every detail, it uses artificial intelligence to handle most of the hard work. What makes it special is its AI Canvas. You simply drag your images into the workspace, give the prompt, and the software helps align, enhance, and blend them automatically. Besides this, you can use its tools like background removal and image enhancement to give your image a sharp and professional look. On top of that, it is incredibly simple and easy to use, and even complete beginners can create clean, natural-looking merges in just a few steps.

Key Features:

• AI Canvas editor
• Smart blending
• One-click background remover
• Image enhancer
• Batch processing

Steps to merge images using HitPaw FotorPea:

Step 1: Go to the Official Website of HitPaw and Download HitPaw FotorPea

Visit the official HitPaw website and download the latest version of HitPaw FotorPea for Windows or Mac. Once the file is downloaded, follow the on-screen instructions to install the software on your computer.

Step 2: Launch HitPaw FotorPea

After installation, open the program and click on "ToolBox." Next choose the "AI Canvas option to start combining two images together. The best thing of this feature is, you can also remove or replace the unwanted object easily.

Step 3: Upload the First Image

Next, upload your base image by clicking the Plus (+) icon. You can also drag and drop the image directly into the canvas. This will be the main photo where the second image will be added.

Step 4: Add the Second Image

Now click on the image icon and upload the second image you want to combine. Place it on the canvas and adjust its size and position. You can move, resize, or align it to blend naturally with the first photo.

Step 5: Merge and Blend with AI

Next click on the "Chat icon" and describe how you want to combine two images together (for example: "blend background," "merge naturally," or "remove edges"). Then press Generate and let the AI process the images automatically for a smooth, realistic result.

Step 6: Preview and Export

Finally, compare the before-and-after results. If everything looks perfect, click Export to save your newly combined image in high quality.

2. CapCut AI

CapCut, on the other hand, started as a video editing app; however, it has recently added strong AI photo tools as well. Because of this, you can now use it to easily merge and design images for TikTok and social media. It includes automatic cutouts, templates, and smart layouts. Therefore, you can combine two images without worrying about alignment or background problems. While it's not as detailed as professional software, it is incredibly fast and convenient for everyday content.

3. Kapwing

Kapwing is an online creative platform designed for people who want fast results directly in their browser. You don't need to install anything, which makes it very convenient. To use Kapwing, you can simply visit the website, upload your images, and start editing immediately. The best thing is that Kapwing offers AI-assisted resizing, collage tools, and layering options. Consequently, merging photos feels simple and smooth. However, the free plan adds watermarks, which might not suit everyone.

4. Media.io

Media.io focuses on quick AI solutions. It doesn't overwhelm you with too many buttons. Instead, it keeps everything clean and simple. Therefore, beginners feel comfortable right away. You can upload your pictures, choose a layout, and instantly combine two images with just a few steps. It's perfect for users who just want fast results without learning editing skills.

5. YesChat.ai

YesChat.ai offers AI-powered design tools that automate many editing tasks. Rather than manually arranging everything, you let AI generate layouts for you. As a result, the process becomes almost effortless. Although it may not give deep customization, it's useful if you are looking for quick, clean combinations. Therefore, it's a good choice for casual users or quick online tasks.

Part 4: Quick Comparison Table

Part 5: Common Problems When Combining Images

Now, here's something important. Even though merging photos seems easy, beginners often run into minor issues. However, once you understand them, they're simple to fix.

• Different Image Sizes

If one photo is big and the other is small, they look uneven. To resolve this issue, make sure to resize both images to the same width or height.

• Blurry or Low Resolution

If your source photos are small and you are trying to stretch them, it will make them blurry, and the final merge will look messy. Therefore, it is recommended to use high-quality photos from the start.

• Cropping Issues

Sometimes, when you try to merge two photos, the computer cuts off someone's head or feet, trying to make the photos fit. To avoid this, adjust the canvas size before merging.

• Background Mismatch

If one photo has a bright beach background and the other is a dark room, they might look weird together. Make sure to use the background removal or matching colors.

• Uneven Lighting

If the sun is on the left in one photo and on the right in the other, your brain knows something is "off," and it makes the image look strange. Therefore, make sure to adjust brightness and contrast for both photos.

• File Too Large

Sometimes the photos you are trying to merge are too large or heavy, making it hard to upload or share. It is recommended to compress or export the image at medium quality.

• Visible Seams or Edges

When you put two photos together, there is often a harsh line where they meet. To get rid of this, use blending or alignment tools. However, AI tools like HitPaw FotorPea do that seamlessly in just a few steps.

Conclusion

Learning how to combine two images is easier than ever, thanks to plenty of easy-to-use tools on the market. For simple tasks, you can use basic tools like Paint or Preview. Meanwhile, online apps like Canva or Pixlr offer more creative layouts. However, if you want faster results with no manual editing, AI tools are the smartest choice. In particular, HitPaw FotorPea is recommended for its AI Canvas feature, which automatically blends photos, fixes lighting, and produces clean, high-quality results without complicated editing.

Now that you know the secrets, why not give it a try? Grab two photos of your favorite places or people, use HitPaw FotorPea, and see what kind of masterpiece you can create!