How can I replace images in a Webflow template that are labeled "for illustration purposes only" instead of deleting them?
TL;DR
- Identify if the image is a static image, background, or CMS-connected by selecting it in Webflow Designer.
- Use the Settings or Style panel to replace static or background images, or update the CMS item directly for CMS-bound images.
- Ensure new images match the original dimensions to preserve layout, optimize for performance, and add alt text for SEO.
To replace images in a Webflow template labeled “for illustration purposes only,” you’ll need to swap them with your own images while keeping the layout intact.
1. Identify the Image Element
- Switch to the Webflow Designer for your project.
- Click on the image you want to replace. It may be an Image element, Background image, or CMS-connected image.
- In the Element Settings panel (D key), check if it's a direct Image element or if it's being used as a background image in a Div Block or Section.
2. Replace a Static Image Element
- If it’s a standard Image element:
- Click the image.
- In the Settings panel, click the Replace Image button.
- Choose a file from your Asset Manager or upload a new one by clicking Upload.
3. Replace Background Images
- If the image is applied as a Background:
- Select the parent element (Div, Section, etc.).
- Go to the Style panel (S key).
- Under Backgrounds, you’ll see the image listed.
- Click the current image to open the Image Manager.
- Click Replace Image or Choose Another Image and upload/select your image.
- Adjust Position, Size, and Repeat settings as needed.
4. Replace Images in CMS Collections
- If the image is part of a CMS Collection item:
- Go to the CMS panel.
- Open the appropriate Collection (e.g., Team Members, Projects).
- Edit the item that contains the placeholder image.
- Replace the image field with your own asset.
- CMS-bound images will auto-update across all templates using that Collection.
5. Optimize and Maintain Layout
- Use images with similar dimensions/aspect ratios to avoid distortion or layout shifts.
- Use WebP or optimized JPEG/PNG to maintain fast loading.
- Add alt text for each image to improve accessibility and SEO.
Summary
To replace “for illustration purposes only” images in a Webflow template, click the image to identify its type, then use the Replace Image function or Asset Manager to swap in your own. Make sure to maintain sizing and positioning to preserve the template layout.