How to Change an Image’s Shape in Google Slides

Adding images to your Google Slides presentations can make them more visually appealing and help communicate your message more effectively. While inserting a basic rectangular photo works, you can make your images even more eye-catching by customizing their shape.

In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to change an image’s shape in Google Slides.

Step 1: Insert an Image into Your Presentation

First, you need to add the image you want to modify to your presentation. Here’s how:

1. Open your Google Slides presentation and navigate to the slide where you want to insert the image.
2. Click “Insert” at the top and select “Image.”
3. Choose to upload an image from your computer or select one from Google Drive or the web.
4. Once inserted, click the image to select it. Sizing handles will appear around it.

Step 2: Access the Crop Tool

To change an image’s shape, you’ll use Google Slides’ cropping feature. Here are the steps:

1. With your image selected, click the “Crop” icon in the toolbar above.
2. Click the drop-down arrow next to the crop icon.
3. Select “Shapes” from the menu. This will open a selection of shapes you can use to crop the image.

Step 3: Choose a Shape

Now it’s time to pick what shape you want to crop the image into:

1. Hover over the different shape categories like basic shapes, arrows, callouts or equations.
2. Click a specific shape in the menu. Your selected shape will appear on top of the image.
3. Use the sizing handles to scale the shape larger or smaller as needed.

Step 4: Adjust and Format the Image Shape

Once your image is cropped into your desired shape, you can further customize its look:

1. Click “Format options” in the toolbar to open the sidebar.
2. Make adjustments like changing transparency, adding a border or effects.
3. Use the rotation handle to angle the cropped image as needed.
4. Drag the image to reposition it on your slide.

Step 5: Annotate and Enhance Your Slide

Don’t forget to add other elements to complement your shaped image:

1. Add text boxes, shapes, icons and other images.
2. Change the slide background color or gradient.
3. Insert word art or SmartArt graphics.
4. Apply animation effects if creating a slideshow.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I reset an image back to its original shape?

Right click the cropped image and choose “Reset image.” This will remove the shape crop and restore it to its original rectangular form.

Can I mask an image with a custom shape I created?

Yes! Insert your custom shape first, then send the image backward behind it so the shape acts as a mask.

What happens if my shape is too small for the image?

Parts of the image that don’t fit into the shape you selected will be hidden from view. Scale your shape up or use a larger shape if needed.

Changing up the standard rectangular photo by cropping it into a unique shape makes for a more compelling, professional-looking presentation in Google Slides. With these simple steps, you’ll be customizing your images like a pro in no time!