How to Add Image to PDF

By Author thumbnail image Emily Shaw | on


The ability to add images into various document formats is invaluable. Whether you’re creating presentations, reports, or portfolios, incorporating visuals can significantly enhance the effectiveness and aesthetic appeal of your content. One commonly utilized format is the Portable Document Format (PDF), known for its compatibility and reliability across different platforms and devices.

Adding images to a PDF document may seem like a daunting task for some, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be a straightforward process. In this guide, we’ll explore the methods available to effortlessly add images to PDF files through step-by-step tutorials, along with tips on editing and optimizing your visuals for the best results.




Compatible Image File Types

Before looking into the process of adding images to a PDF, it’s good to understand compatible image file formats. PDF documents support a wide range of image formats, including but not limited to JPG/JPEG, PNG, GIF, BMP, and TIFF. When selecting images for your PDF, ensure they are in one of these supported formats to avoid compatibility issues.

To safeguard use of the image, users can choose to protect it by adding a watermark. Most image editors have this feature, try to right-click on your image to apply one.

 

Different Tools to Add Image to PDF

Several online tools cater to the task of adding images to PDF files, offering user-friendly interfaces and various features to streamline the process. Here are five of the best online tools for inserting images to PDF documents:

  • DocFly: DocFly is an online PDF editor that simplifies the task of adding images to PDF files.
  • Smallpdf: Smallpdf is a popular PDF editor known for its simplicity and efficiency in handling PDF-related tasks and is available on a variety of platforms including iOS and Android.
  • PDF2Go: PDF2Go is a web-based free PDF tool that specializes in PDF manipulation, including adding images to PDF files.
  • PDF24: PDF24 offers an online platform or desktop software (Windows and Mac) that includes various features for adding images to PDF documents.
  • ILovePDF: ILovePDF is a well-known online PDF solution offering a range of PDF-related tools, including the ability to add images to PDF files.

 

Step-by-Step: How to Add an Image to PDF Using DocFly

Step 1: Navigate to DocFly and import your files

Open your web browser (such as Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge) and navigate to DocFly. Click on the green button labeled "Click to upload your file" to upload an existing PDF. A window will pop up where you can select your PDF file. You can find your file by browsing through your File Explorer (on Windows) or Finder (on Mac). Alternatively, you can drag and drop your PDF file into the dotted area on the webpage. After importing your file, wait for the process to complete.

Step 1 DocFly

Step 2: Open the PDF Editor

Click on the file you uploaded from within the DocFly dashboard. You'll then be taken to the editor.

DocFly Step 2

Step 3: Select Your Image Using the Add Image Feature

Click on "Image." You'll find it at the top, between "Cross" and "Signature" in the toolbar. Then, use the choose file feature from the pop-up. You can either click "Upload Image" to browse your device, or simply drag and drop your image into the dotted area. You can also upload images from Dropbox or Google Drive by clicking on the icons below the image field. If you have multiple images, you can upload them all in the same window.

DocFly Step 3

Step 4: Apply the Image to Your PDF Pages

Click on the image you want to add. You'll notice the cursor change to a "+" symbol with the image slightly transparent. Then, click where you want the image to go in your PDF pages. The image will be inserted at that location. Adjust your image as needed. If you want to move the image from where it was initially placed, just click on it and drag it to the new position.

DocFly Step 4

Step 5: Save and Export Your PDF

Click on "Save." You'll find it as the green button at the very top. After saving, the "Export" button will show up. Next, click on "Export." It's the purple button located to the right of "Save." Then, click on "Download." You'll need to give your new file a name and then hit "Save" or “Save As.” You can also choose other options like "Print," "Export to Dropbox," or "Export to Google Drive."

Step 5

Will I Be Able to Edit an Image When It’s in the PDF?

One common concern when adding images to PDF documents is the ability to edit those images once they're embedded. The answer to this question and other FAQs is below:

Basic PDF Tools:

If you're using a basic PDF tool or viewer, like Mac Preview on MacOS, the ability to edit images within the PDF may be limited or nonexistent.

Advanced PDF Editors

Advanced PDF editing software, such as Adobe Acrobat Pro, typically offer more comprehensive image editing features including OCR. Users can edit images directly within the PDF, including resizing, cropping, rotating, and adjusting image properties.

Online PDF Tools

Some online PDF tools, offer basic image editing capabilities within their PDF tools. Users can resize, crop, annotate, and adjust the placement of images directly within the platform's interface.

Microsoft Word

Opening a PDF in Microsoft Word (or other Office programs like Excel) converts it automatically into an editable format. This works best when the create PDF function was used to convert PDF from an Office document originally.

 

Advantages of Using DocFly Over Other Tools

DocFly stands out among these tools for its intuitive interface and comprehensive set of features. With DocFly, users can easily upload images and add them into PDF files. Additionally, DocFly offers PDF editing capabilities, allowing users to resize, minimize file size, sign PDFs, and edit PDF directly within the platform.



Author image

Emily Shaw is the founder of DocFly. As a software developer, she built the service from scratch and is responsible for its operations and continued growth. Previously, she studied engineering at the University of Hong Kong and mathematics at the University of Manchester.