Using the IMAGE Function to Display Pictures in Excel

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Quick Start: Displaying Multiple Images in Excel

1. Prepare Your Data

In your Excel spreadsheet, enter the image URLs in a column (e.g., column B). Each cell should contain one image link, and make sure they are all accessible.

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Image links must start with https:// and be in a format supported by Excel (such as JPG, PNG, GIF, etc.).

2. Use the IMAGE Function

In the target column (e.g., column C), enter the following formula in the first cell C2:

3. Apply the Formula to Multiple Cells

Drag the formula down to fill other cells. Wait for the network to load, and all corresponding images will automatically display in column C. If loading fails, check if the images are available and if Excel's security settings allow external links.

4. Adjust Cell Dimensions

To ensure images display properly, you'll need to adjust the row height and column width. For example:

Column width: Drag the column border to increase width.

Row height: Right-click the cell and select "Row Height" to enter an appropriate value.

Demo

Deep Dive: What is the IMAGE Function?

IMAGE function is a new feature introduced by Excel in August 2022 that allows users to display images directly in cells using specified URLs. It's useful in many scenarios, such as:

Product catalogs: Batch display product images for quick preview.

Personnel records: Add employee photos.

Data visualization: Embed small images in reports to enhance readability.

Supported Excel Clients and Versions

The IMAGE function is only available in:

Microsoft 365 (Office 365) subscription:

Windows and Mac: Requires August 2022 update or later.
Excel for the web: Supported by default.

Excel mobile (iOS and Android): Requires latest version.

Unsupported versions: Perpetual license versions (like Office 2019 or earlier) don't support the IMAGE function.

Syntax Reference

Here's the IMAGE function syntax and its parameters:

Parameter	Meaning	Required	Default
`source`	Image file URL (must use HTTPS protocol).	Required	None
`[alt_text]`	Alternative text for accessibility or when image fails to load.	Optional	Blank
`[sizing]`	Image sizing method (see below).	Optional	0
`[height]`	Custom image height (pixels, only works when`sizing=3`).	Optional	None
`[width]`	Custom image width (pixels, only works when`sizing=3`).	Optional	None

Image Display Modes (`sizing`) Parameter

Value	Meaning
0	Default: Fits to cell while maintaining aspect ratio.
1	Fill: Stretches to fill cell, ignoring aspect ratio.
2	Uses original image size, may exceed cell boundaries.
3	Custom size (requires specified`height`and`width`).

Advanced Usage: Customizing Image Display

If you need more precise control over image display, try these advanced techniques:

1. Custom Image Size

Specify image height and width (in pixels):

This formula sets the image size to 100 × 100 pixels.

2. Add Alternative Text

Display alternative text when images fail to load (e.g., "Image failed to load"). This is very useful!

3. Use Original Image Size

To display images at their original size, set sizing to 2:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why won't my images display? Why do I see a `#CONNECT!` error?

Image URLs must start with https://.

Ensure image formats are supported by Excel (such as JPG, PNG, GIF).

Check your network connection.

Q2: What if my Excel doesn't support the IMAGE function?

The IMAGE function requires Microsoft 365 (Office 365) subscription. If you're using a perpetual license version (like Office 2019 or earlier), consider upgrading to Microsoft 365.

Alternative solutions:

Use VBA code to insert images.
Insert images as objects.

Q3: Does the IMAGE function support dynamic image updates?

Yes, the IMAGE function loads images dynamically from URLs. If the image source updates, simply refresh the spreadsheet to update the displayed images.

Conclusion

With the IMAGE function, Excel users can quickly display multiple images, significantly improving productivity without relying on other tools or manual operations. This article has covered everything from basic usage to advanced techniques to help you master this powerful feature.

Open your Excel and try converting image URLs into visual cell displays now!