ShapeLoop offers two powerful modes for highlight overlays: Outline (animated border around your target) and Spotlight (dimmed mask with a bright "window"). Both use the same shapes and effects — but create completely different visual impact.
Visual Comparison
Animated border around your target. Full screen visibility — great for step-by-step tutorials.
Dimmed background with "window" cutout. Maximum focus on single element.
Unique feature for Founder's Deal members: Record your mouse movement, and the spotlight follows that exact trajectory. Perfect for guiding viewers through complex UI flows — the spotlight literally follows your cursor path over 1-10 seconds.
When to Use Each Mode
When viewers need full UI context while following step-by-step
When one specific element must be impossible to miss
When you need to highlight several items in one scene
When you want cinematic "reveal" or focus effect
Quick Decision Guide
| Scenario | Best Mode | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Software tutorial | ⭐ Outline | Viewers see full UI context |
| Critical button/CTA | ⭐ Spotlight | Maximum focus, zero distraction |
| Multiple elements | ⭐ Outline | Can highlight several at once |
| Product reveal | ⭐ Spotlight | Cinematic "unveil" effect |
| Social media clip | Either | Depends on content style |
You can combine both modes in the same video! Use Outline for most steps, then switch to Spotlight for the most critical action (like a "Subscribe" button or payment confirmation).
Both Modes Share
Regardless of which mode you choose, you get access to the same powerful features:
- 4 shape types: Circle, Rectangle, Ellipse, Pill
- Arrow pointers: Top, Bottom, Left, Right (with bounce animation)
- Custom colors: Border color, mask color (Spotlight), with color history
- Transparent WebM export: VP9 codec with alpha channel
- Aspect ratio presets: 16:9, 9:16, 1:1, 4:5, 4:3 + custom
Try Both Modes Free
Create your first spotlight overlay in 30 seconds. No signup required.