How can I implement the concept of Collections in Webflow for a Multi-Image with Thumbnails feature?

To create a Multi-Image with Thumbnails gallery using Webflow Collections (CMS), you'll need to set up your content structure and use dynamic lists to manage images from the CMS.

1. Define Your CMS Collection Structure

• Go to CMS > Collections, then either create a new Collection or edit an existing one.
• Add a Multi-Image field (named something like "Gallery Images").
• Optionally include other fields like Title, Description, or Slug.

2. Add a Collection List to Your Page

• Add a Collection List to your page or template bound to your target Collection (e.g., Projects or Portfolio).
• This will represent the overall container for each Collection Item (e.g., each project with its own gallery).

3. Nest a Multi-Image Collection List

• Inside the initial Collection List item, add a Collection List Wrapper and connect it to the Multi-Image field (e.g., "Gallery Images").
• This nested Collection List will render each image tied to that item.

4. Design Main Image and Thumbnails

Within the Multi-Image Collection List:

• Add an Image element and bind it to the image itself.
• Duplicate the structure for thumbnails:
• One instance styled as a large image (for the main preview).
• Another Collection List with smaller styled thumbnails below it.

Webflow does not support dynamic interaction between thumbnails and main images via native CMS logic. To simulate active thumbnail selection, you must use custom JavaScript or third-party integrations.

5. Simulate Interactivity (Optional, Advanced)

If you want thumbnails to change the main image onclick, there are a few strategies:

• Use custom JavaScript to update the main image when a thumbnail is clicked. Note Webflow does not allow <script> code inside CMS item content, but it does on the page level.
• Alternatively, use Webflow’s Lightbox to group images dynamically using the Multi-Image field, enabling fullscreen image browsing.

6. Style the Gallery

• Use Flexbox or Grid to arrange images and thumbnails.
• Assign consistent sizing for thumbnails and scale the main image larger.
• Add hover/focus states for better UX on thumbnails.

Summary

To create a multi-image thumbnail gallery using Webflow CMS:

• Create a Multi-Image field in your Collection.
• Use two nested Collection Lists to show both main image and thumbnails.
• For dynamic selection between thumbnails and main preview, include custom JavaScript, as Webflow does not natively support this kind of interactivity with CMS-bound Multi-Image fields.