There are a couple of methods for scaling images in Adobe Indesign – we explore the variety of features in our Indesign courses.
To an extent, the method you choose depends on how you imported the image. If you simply went Fie > Place and imported an image at its full print size, there are three methods. Either use the Scale tool, or the options on the top Control panel, or use a keyboard shortcut.
To conduct the first method select the image, then double-click on the Scale tool in the toolbox. A dialog box will open as in the screenshot here. Generally make sure that the Uniform is selected, enter a scale value and toggle Preview off and on to see the result on screen. Hit OK when you’re happy.
The second method is to change the percentage value in the field at the top Control panel, under Scale X value (ie. the width of the image). Note that by default the Scale Y (or height) value is linked via the small chain icon. Generally keep this activated. Change the value and hit Enter on your keyboard.
The third method is more visual – first select the image, then press down on Control (Mac: Command) and Shift together. Then click and drag one of the corner anchor points to re-scale the image. Then take your finger off the mouse first, then off Control and Shift. Control is scaling the image and pressing Shift is keeping the width and height proportionate, hence you need to press down on both together to scale proportionately.
An alternate method is to first create a placeholder with the Rectangle Frame tool, then File > Place your image. Them right-click > Fill Frame Proportionally, or Fit Content Proportionally.
More tips can be found at the Sydney Indesign User Group which meets regularly in the city, and is a free forum for designers to discuss topics and the latest Indesign features. See many examples of our own clients’ work on our Facebook page.
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• Indesign images and text
  
• Indesign workflow
• Indesign templates
• Indesign page numbers
• Indesign add hyperlink