Importing multiple images into Krita is typically done when you want to bring several image files into a single project, often as separate layers, or open them all as individual documents. While the provided reference focuses on importing a single image, the principles shown can be extended, and Krita offers dedicated methods for multiple files.
Understanding Basic Image Import (Single File)
The provided reference illustrates the fundamental process of importing a single image. This usually involves selecting an image file through Krita's menus or dragging it onto the canvas. As noted in the reference transcript, after successfully importing an image this way, the result is confirmed with phrases like "And boom you imported your image into krita." The reference also mentions exploring "another way to do this as well," suggesting alternative methods exist even for single image imports (like using File > Open, File > Import Layer, or dragging a single file). The action of closing the file ("So we're going to hit Ctrl W close out this file") implies the demonstration was focused on handling one image at a time.
While you could repeat a single-image import process for every image you want to bring in, Krita offers more efficient ways for handling multiple files at once.
Efficiently Importing Multiple Images
Krita provides streamlined workflows specifically for importing multiple image files simultaneously. The most common methods depend on whether you want the images as layers in one document or as separate documents.
Importing as Layers (Recommended for Compositing/References)
To add multiple images into your current Krita document, each on its own layer:
- Open the Krita document you want to import the images into.
- Open your file explorer (e.g., Windows Explorer, macOS Finder, Linux file manager).
- Select all the image files you wish to import (e.g., using Shift+Click or Ctrl/Cmd+Click).
- Drag the selected image files directly from your file explorer onto the canvas within Krita.
- Krita will process each image and typically add them as new layers on top of your existing ones.
This method is quick and ideal when you're compiling reference images, adding different elements for digital painting, or creating a collage.
Opening as Separate Documents
If you want each image to open in its own distinct Krita window or tab:
- Go to the menu bar and select
File > Open.... - Navigate to the folder where your images are stored.
- Select multiple image files from the dialog box (again, using Shift+Click or Ctrl/Cmd+Click).
- Click the
Openbutton.
Krita will then open each selected image as a separate, independent document window or tab, allowing you to work on them individually.
Summary: Single vs. Multiple Import Methods
| Method | Files Handled | Result in Krita | Primary Use Case | Relation to Reference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drag & Drop | Single/Multiple | New Document (Single) or Layers (Multiple) | Quick import, Compositing | Similar to basic import shown |
| File > Open | Single/Multiple | New Document(s) | Starting new projects, Batch opening | Similar to basic import shown |
| File > Import Layer | Single | New Layer in Current Document | Adding one element | "Another way" to import? |
While the reference demonstrates the basic action of getting an image into Krita, importing multiple images efficiently usually involves selecting several files at once using methods like dragging them onto the canvas to create layers or opening them via the File menu to create separate documents.
