To flip an image in Adobe InDesign, you typically use the Control panel after selecting the image. You have options for flipping the image horizontally or vertically.
Flipping Images in InDesign
InDesign provides straightforward tools to reflect or mirror selected objects, including images. This process is usually done using dedicated buttons within the Control panel, which changes based on the selected tool and object.
Using the Control Panel
Once you have selected the image frame containing your graphic, the Control panel displays various transformation options. Look for the Flip Horizontal and Flip Vertical buttons.
- Flip Horizontal: This option reflects the image across a vertical axis. According to the reference, "To reflect using the reference point as a horizontal axis, click the Flip Horizontal button in the Control panel." (Note: The reference's wording "reflect using the reference point as a horizontal axis" is a bit counter-intuitive for a horizontal flip. A horizontal flip mirrors the image across a vertical line or axis, typically passing through the reference point. The reference point acts as the anchor).
- Flip Vertical: This option reflects the image across a horizontal axis. According to the reference, "To reflect using the reference point as a vertical axis, click the Flip Vertical button in the Control panel." (Similarly, a vertical flip mirrors the image across a horizontal line or axis, typically passing through the reference point).
The reference point plays a crucial role. This is the point around which transformations, including flipping, occur. You can see and change the reference point in the Control panel, usually represented by a grid of nine squares. The flip will occur relative to the selected point on this grid (e.g., center, top-left, bottom-right).
Here’s a quick summary of the actions based on the reference:
| Action | Control Panel Button | Axis of Reflection (Relative to Reference Point) |
|---|---|---|
| Flip Horizontal | Flip Horizontal | Vertical axis (though reference says "horizontal axis") |
| Flip Vertical | Flip Vertical | Horizontal axis (though reference says "vertical axis") |
Note: While the reference describes flipping using the reference point as an axis, the standard graphical interpretation is reflecting across an axis that passes through the reference point.
Steps to Flip an Image
- Select the image you want to flip using the Selection Tool (V).
- Look at the Control panel, usually located at the top of the workspace.
- Locate the transformation icons. You should see icons for flipping.
- Click the Flip Horizontal button (looks like two triangles mirroring each other horizontally).
- Click the Flip Vertical button (looks like two triangles mirroring each other vertically).
You can perform both flips on the same image if needed.
Understanding the reference point helps predict where the flipped image will end up relative to its original position.
