If you’re looking to take your Canva designs to the next level, placing images inside shapes is one of the easiest yet most effective tricks you can learn. Whether you’re a Canva beginner or an experienced user looking for Canva tips and tricks, this tutorial will show you how to do just that. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about using Canva frames, cropping images, and adding your photos into different shapes.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Place an Image in a Shape
1. Open Canva and Open a File
Start by opening a Canva file. Add a new page so you’ll be working with a clean slate. This makes it easy to experiment with different layouts and frames.
2. Navigate to the Elements Tab
Once your design space is ready, head over to the Elements tab on the left side of your screen. This is where you’ll find a variety of shapes and frames to enhance your design.
3. Choose a Frame
Frames are the key to placing your image inside a shape. In the Elements tab, select the Frames option, and you’ll see a variety of shapes available. You can choose from simple squares, circles, or more creative options like arrows, stars, or even letters! I like to experiment with shapes like cloud frames for a unique look.

4. Drag and Drop Your Image
Once you’ve chosen a frame, go to your recent uploads or Canva’s image library, and simply drag and drop your image into the frame. Canva will automatically fit your image into the shape. It’s as simple as that!

5. Reposition and Resize
Now that your image is inside the frame, you can reposition it by double-clicking on the image. You can move it around to center the subject, or resize it to fit better. You can also crop the image by increasing or decreasing its size. When you’re happy with the result, click Done.
6. Remove the Image
If you need to swap the image or remove it from the frame, simply double-click on it and hit the Delete key. It’s quick and easy, so you can adjust your design without hassle.
Why Canva Frames Are a Game Changer
Using frames in Canva gives you complete control over how your images are displayed. They ensure that everything stays within a defined shape and makes it much easier to maintain consistent formatting across your designs. Frames are especially useful for creating visual interest and adding professional touches to your artwork. Plus, they save you time and frustration!
Final Thoughts
Learning how to place an image inside a shape in Canva is a must-have skill for anyone looking to improve their design game. With these simple steps and Canva design tips, you’ll be creating polished, professional-looking images in no time. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more Canva tutorials and graphic design tips.
If you found this tutorial helpful, be sure to check out more of my content for additional Canva hacks and beginner-friendly tutorials. Happy designing!