How to Use Images as Shapes (Step by Step Guide)
The fastest way to place a picture inside a shape is by using a feature called “Masking”. It might sound technical, but it only takes a few clicks. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Insert Your Image onto the Slide
First, add the image you want to work with. You can do this by going to Insert > Image and choosing to upload from your computer, Google Drive, or search the web.
Step 2: Locate the “Crop” Icon in the Toolbar
Select the image and find the Crop icon in the toolbar. This is the most important step! Don’t click the crop icon itself. Instead, click the tiny dropdown arrow right next to it.
Step 3: Choose Your Desired Shape
A menu will appear with four categories: Shapes, Arrows, Callouts, and Equation. Hover over “Shapes” and select the one you want, like an Oval, Rounded Rectangle, or a Star.
Step 4: Your Image is Now Shaped!
Instantly, your rectangular image will be cropped into the shape you selected.
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Customizing after Inserting Image in a Shape
Now that you have your shaped image, you can customize it to create a beautiful slide in photo frame effect.
- Resize the Image: Click and drag the corners of the blue border to make the shaped image bigger or smaller.
- Add a Border: With the image still selected, click the Border color icon in the toolbar (it looks like a pen). Choose a color for your frame.
- Change Border Thickness: Next to the color tool, click the Border weight icon and choose a thicker line (like 4px or 8px) to make the frame more noticeable.
- Change Border Style: You can even use the Border dash icon to create a dashed or dotted frame.
✍ [You May Also Like]: How to Make an Image Transparent in Google Slides in 15s
FAQs: Use AI to Make a Slide Deck
Q1: How to make a picture circle shape in google slides
A: Select the image → click the Crop arrow → choose Circle.
Q2: How to restore the original shape of an image?
A: It’s easy! Just click Reset image icon next to the Crop icon.
Q3: Can I insert multiple images inside one shape?
A: No, one shape only holds one image. But you can overlay or group shapes for a creative effect.
Q4: Why does my picture look stretched inside the shape?
A: Adjust the crop handles after applying the shape. Dragging helps resize the image without distortion.
💬 Conclusion:
Master how to put an image in a shape helps your slides stand out.The next time you build a slide deck, move beyond the rectangle and give your images some style.
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