Is there a simpler way to create an image gallery in Webflow, where I can add multiple pictures at once and have it automatically create thumbnails using a lightbox tool or another method?
TL;DR
- Create a CMS Collection with a Multi-Image Field to upload multiple images per item.
- Add a Collection List to your page, insert a Lightbox component inside it, and connect it to the Multi-Image Field for auto-generated thumbnails and lightbox functionality.
You can simplify creating an image gallery with automatic thumbnails and lightbox functionality in Webflow by using the native Lightbox component and Multi-Image Field within a CMS Collection.
1. Use the CMS with a Multi-Image Field
- Create a CMS Collection (e.g., “Galleries” or “Projects”).
- Add a Multi-Image Field in the Collection (called something like “Gallery Images”).
- This allows you to upload multiple images at once within each item.
2. Add a Collection List to Your Page
- Drag a Collection List onto your page.
- Connect it to the desired Collection, such as Galleries or Projects.
- Inside the Collection List, add a Lightbox component.
3. Link Lightbox to Multi-Image Field
- Select the Lightbox–not Lightbox Link.
- Inside the Lightbox, select "Get media from Multi-Image Field."
- Choose the relevant field (e.g., "Gallery Images").
Webflow will automatically generate a gallery of images:
- Each image acts as a clickable thumbnail.
- Clicking any will open the lightbox modal view with navigation.
- All the images are grouped automatically within the same lightbox set.
4. Upload Your Images in Bulk
- Go to the CMS item (e.g., a Project).
- Use the Multi-Image field uploader to drag and drop multiple images at once.
- Publish the site to see the gallery populated automatically.
Summary
Use Webflow’s CMS Multi-Image Field + Lightbox component to easily create an image gallery with thumbnails and full-resolution modal views—upload images once, and Webflow builds everything automatically.