How to Download an Image from Figma: Quick Guide

Downloading images from Figma is a key skill for any designer looking to manage their design assets efficiently.

Whether you need to export a single UI element as a PNG, a complex graphic as an SVG, or a high-resolution asset as a JPEG, knowing how to download an image from Figma is crucial.

This guide will walk you through each step of the process. You’ll learn:

• How to access the export menu
• Adjust image quality settings
• Save designs in various formats like JPEG, PNG, and SVG
• Export assets with transparent backgrounds
• Use shortcuts and plugins to streamline the export process

By the end of this article, you’ll have a solid understanding of how to optimize and export your design assets from Figma efficiently.

Let’s dive into the exact steps you need to follow to download images seamlessly and effectively.

How to Download Images in Figma

Using the Slice Tool for Specific Image Selection

The Slice Tool in Figma is your go-to for targeting specific image downloads efficiently. Here’s how you can access and use it:

• Steps to Access the Slice Tool:
  • Open your Figma file.
  • Select the Slice Tool from the toolbar or use the shortcut key “S”.
  • Draw a slice around the desired image or component.
• Advantages of Using the Slice Tool:
  • Targeted Downloads: Allows you to isolate and download precise sections of your design.
  • Efficiency: Saves time by focusing on specific elements rather than entire frames.

Steps to Download Images

• Logging into Figma:
  • Open your browser.
  • Go to Figma’s website and log in to your account.
• Creating a New File or Accessing an Existing One:
  • New File:
    • Click on “New File” from the dashboard.
  • Existing File:
    • Navigate to the file you want to access from your projects.
• Selecting the Desired Image or Design Frame:
  • Click on the image or frame you wish to download.
• Using the Export Menu to Choose Formats and Scales:
  • In the right sidebar, find the “Export” section.
  • Choose the desired format (PNG, JPG, SVG, etc.).
  • Set the scale (1x, 2x, etc.).
• Downloading Images to the Local System:
  • Click the “Export” button.
  • Save the file to your local system when prompted.

Downloading Entire Designs

• Saving Designs Locally as FIG Files:
  • In the file menu, select “File” > “Save as .fig”.
  • This saves the entire design as a Figma project file.
• Accessing Autosaved Designs on the Cloud:
  • All your work is automatically saved to the cloud.
  • Simply log in to Figma from any device to access your designs wherever you are.

Exporting Images from Figma

Types of Image Formats for Export

When it comes to exporting from Figma, you’ve got some solid options. Each format serves a unique purpose, so picking the right one is key.

• PNG: Perfect for high-quality, lossless images. Ideal for scenarios where quality can’t be compromised.
• JPG: Compressed and web-friendly. Best used when you need smaller file sizes without much loss in visual fidelity.
• SVG: The go-to for scalable vector graphics. Excellent for web and graphic design, ensuring your visuals stay crisp at any size.
• PDF: Printable format. Use this for high-resolution outputs, especially if you’re thinking about physical media.

Step-by-Step Export Guide

Diving into exporting might seem daunting, but it’s quite straightforward. Here’s the drill:

• Selecting Frames, Layers, or Designs for Export:
  • Click on what you need to export. This could be a whole frame, a couple of layers, or even single elements.
• Navigating to the Export Section in the Inspector Panel:
  • Look to the right sidebar. Scroll down until you hit the “Export” section. That’s your playground for export settings.
• Configuring Export Settings: Format, Resolution, and File Name:
  • Choose your format (PNG, JPG, SVG, PDF).
  • Set your desired resolution. Scale it up or down based on what you need.
  • Name your file. Keeping things organized here will save you headaches later.
• Completing the Export Process:
  • Hit that “Export” button. Save the file to your local system or any folder as per your workflow.

Previewing Images Before Export

Before you finalize everything, seeing a preview can save you from potential mishaps.

• Enabling the Preview Toggle:
  • Flip on the preview toggle in the export section. This gives you a quick glance at how your exported image will look.
• Ensuring Correct Export Settings and Resolutions:
  • Double-check all settings. Make sure your export format, resolution, and dimensions align with what you need.
    

How to Download Original Images in Figma’s Dev Mode

Challenges in Accessing Original Images

Accessing original images in Figma’s Dev Mode has its quirks. It’s not always straightforward.

Issues with Downloading Frames at Incorrect Resolutions:

Getting frames can be frustrating. Sometimes you get a distorted or low-resolution version. Not what you need when precision matters.

Lack of Intuitive Download Options in Dev Mode:

Finding the right button can feel like a treasure hunt. The usual download flow just isn’t there, making the process cumbersome.

Solution for Retrieving Original Images

Accessing the Code Section in Dev Mode:

First, switch to the Code section. This is where you unleash the developer tools and get to the roots of your design elements.

Using the Green Image Link to Fetch Original Assets:

You’ll notice green links. These are your friends. Click on one, and it downloads the original image. It’s like a secret door that opens exactly what you need.

Tips for Simplifying the Process for Repeated Use:

• Bookmark the Code section for quick access.
• Create a checklist to ensure each image is downloaded in the correct format and resolution.
• Familiarize yourself with the link locations to speed up future downloads.
  

Best Practices for Image Exporting in Figma

Choosing the Right Format for Specific Use Cases

Exporting images from Figma isn’t just about hitting “export” and calling it a day. Different projects require different formats.

Web design: Use PNG or JPG. PNG is your friend when you need high-quality, lossless images—think logos or detailed graphics. JPG works better for photos or when you need compressed, faster-loading images.

Print media: Go with PDF. This format ensures your designs come out high-resolution, perfect for brochures or posters.

Scalable graphics: Opt for SVG. Ideal for icons or any graphic that needs to scale without losing quality.

Optimizing Export Settings

Before you hit that export button, it’s crucial to tweak the settings.

Adjusting Resolutions and Scales for High-Quality Results:

Determine the right resolution. For web, 72 DPI usually does the trick. For print, aim higher—300 DPI or more. Scaling matters too. Choose 1x, 2x, or whatever suits the end use.

Using Preview Tools to Confirm Settings Before Export:

Always preview. Seriously. It’s a lifesaver. Toggle the preview option to ensure no nasty surprises when you check the final export. Double-check format, resolution, and dimensions to avoid rework.

Organizing Exported Files

Once exported, organizing those files can save you hours in the long run.

Naming Conventions for Easy File Management:

Stick to clear, consistent naming conventions. Something like projectname_element_description_version.format works wonders. Your future self and any collaborators will thank you.

Storing Files Systematically for Collaborative Projects:

Set up folders by project, then break it down by type—assets/web and assets/print maybe? Use cloud storage like Dropbox or Google Drive for easy access and sharing. Keep it tidy, label wisely, and everyone stays on the same page.

FAQ on How To Download Image From Figma

How do I export an image from Figma?

To export an image, select the design element you want to download. In the properties panel, click the “+” under the “Export” section.

Choose your desired format like JPEG, PNG, or SVG, adjust the settings if needed, and click “Export”.

Can I save images in different formats?

Yes, Figma supports multiple formats. You can save images as JPEG, PNG, SVG, or even PDF.

Just select your desired format from the export options in the properties panel. Each format has specific settings to optimize quality and file size.

How do I adjust image quality settings in Figma?

Navigate to the export settings after selecting your design. Here, you can adjust the quality by choosing the scale—1x, 2x, etc., or setting a custom width and height.

Higher scales produce higher resolution images, which is crucial for high-quality exports.

Can I export multiple elements at once?

Absolutely. Select all the elements you want to export, go to the properties panel, and use the export settings.

You can export multiple items in one go, which makes downloading a batch of design assets straightforward.

What about exporting assets with transparent backgrounds?

For transparent backgrounds, export your design as a PNG or SVG. In the export settings, ensure you check the option for transparency.

This is useful for UI components that need to blend seamlessly with various backgrounds.

Are there any shortcuts for exporting images?

Yes, use the keyboard shortcut Shift + Command + E (Mac) or Shift + Ctrl + E (Windows) to quickly open the export dialog.

This shortcut saves time and makes the exporting process faster, especially when you’re working with multiple elements.

How do I export high-resolution images?

To export high-resolution images, adjust the scale in the export settings to 2x, 3x, or higher. This increases the resolution, ensuring that your download is crisp and clear.

High-resolution exports are essential for print quality and retina displays.

How do I export images for different screen sizes?

For different screen sizes, use the multiple scale options during export. Set your design to export at different scales—1x, 2x, 3x.

This way, you get various image sizes suitable for different devices, ensuring your designs look sharp everywhere.

Can I automate the export process in Figma?

Figma plugins can help automatize the export process. Plugins like “Batch Export” allow you to set up export presets and batch export assets, simplifying repetitive tasks and improving workflow efficiency.

What common issues should I look out for when exporting images?

Watch out for incorrect scaling, low resolution, and missing transparency. Always double-check the export settings, including format, scale, and quality.

Test the exported images in their intended use cases to ensure they meet your project requirements.

Conclusion

Downloading images from Figma ensures your design workflow remains efficient and flexible.

From accessing the export menu to adjusting image quality settings, knowing how to download image from Figma is pivotal for maintaining high-quality visuals. You can effortlessly export your design elements as JPEG, PNG, SVG, or PDF. Whether you need high-resolution images for retina displays or transparent backgrounds for diverse UI components, Figma’s export tools have you covered.

Walkthrough Quick Steps:

• Select your design component
• Navigate to the export section
• Choose the desired format and settings
• Click Export

Additionally, the use of shortcuts and plugins can streamline your workflow, saving valuable time. Always ensure your export settings, like the scale and transparency options, align with your project’s requirements.

By mastering these steps, you’re equipped to handle any project demands, from web design prototypes to comprehensive brand assets. Mastering Figma’s export functionality can vastly improve your productivity and the quality of your deliverables.

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