How Do I Import an Image into AutoCAD?

Importing an image into AutoCAD allows you to bring raster images into your drawing for tracing, reference, or visual context. The process is straightforward and involves attaching the image file to your current drawing.

Step-by-Step Guide to Attaching an Image

The primary method for bringing an image file into your AutoCAD drawing is using the Attach command. This command links the external image file to your drawing rather than embedding it directly, which helps keep your drawing file size smaller.

Here are the exact steps based on the standard AutoCAD interface:

1. Navigate to the Insert tab on the Ribbon.
2. In the References panel, click the Attach tool. This action opens the "Select Image File" dialog box.
3. In the Select Image File dialog box, browse to and select the image file you want to import. You can use various methods within this dialog to specify the correct image.
4. Click Open. This will close the file selection dialog and open the "Image" dialog box.
5. In the Image dialog box, you can specify details about how the image will be inserted into your drawing. This includes options to define the:
   • Insertion Point: Where the bottom-left corner of the image will be placed in the drawing. You can specify coordinates or pick a point on screen.
   • Scale: The size of the image relative to the drawing units. You can enter a scale factor or specify the size on screen.
   • Rotation: The angle at which the image will be placed. You can enter an angle value or specify it on screen.
     You can often choose to Specify On-screen for these options, allowing you to visually place, size, and rotate the image using your cursor in the drawing area after closing the dialog.
6. Once you have set the desired parameters in the Image dialog box, click OK.

The selected image will then appear in your drawing according to the insertion point, scale, and rotation you specified.

Tips for Working with Attached Images

• File Formats: AutoCAD supports various image file formats, including JPEG, PNG, TIFF, and others.
• Resolution: Consider the resolution of your image. A low-resolution image may appear pixelated when scaled up in AutoCAD.
• Path Type: When attaching, you'll typically have options for the path type (Full Path, Relative Path, No Path). Using a Relative Path is often recommended if your image file will be kept in the same folder or a consistent subfolder relative to your DWG file.
• Managing Images: Attached images appear in the External References palette (type EXTERNALREFERENCES or XREF and press Enter). From here, you can manage the attached images, including reloading, unloading, detaching, and changing the path.

This process ensures that your image is correctly linked and displayed within your AutoCAD drawing for use in your design work.