How to Mask an Image Inside Text in Adobe InDesign

Looking to create a bold text mask effect you’ve seen in posters and ads — but don’t want to switch over to Photoshop? In this tutorial, learn how to do it entirely in Adobe InDesign!

Follow along in this quick tutorial as I go over how to convert text to outlines, place an image inside the text, and duplicate frames to create a clean, eye-catching mask effect.

To download the files and follow along in the video, click the link below to access the image and InDesign doc.

Tutorial Exercise FIles.zip

Download ZIP • 9.52MB

Step 1: Set Up Your Text

Start by typing your headline using the Type Tool (T). Choose a bold, heavy font — something that will show off the image well once masked (for example, Futura Extra Bold or Impact). Adjust the size and spacing until it’s positioned where you want it on the page.

Step 2: Convert Text to Outlines

To make the text editable as a shape, go to:Type > Create Outlines (Shift + Command/Ctrl + O). This converts your text into vector outlines, turning each letter into an editable frame — perfect for placing an image inside.

Step 3: Place Your Image

Select the outlined text frame and go to:File > Place, then choose your PNG image (in this case, a colorful bird included in the exercise files.).Click inside the outlined text — your image will now appear within the shape of your text!

You can adjust the image inside the frame by double-clicking it and using the Selection Tool or Direct Selection Tool to reposition or resize.

To make it fit the frame proportionally, right-click and go to fitting, Fill Frame Proportionally or as a shortcut, press Shift + Option + Command + C (Mac) or Shift + Alt + Ctrl + C (Windows).

Step 4: Copy Image, Duplicate and Crop

To create the mask effetc, copy the content within the text and then hold Shift + Option + Command + V to Paste in Place. You can also go to Edit > Paste in Place. Crop the frame and leave the areas you want to keep while masking out the other areas. Paste in Place another version and crop the frame again. Repeat the process until you have completed the text mask effect.

You’ve just created a professional-looking text masking effect — all within Adobe InDesign.

This technique is perfect for posters, magazine covers, social media graphics, or event branding where you want your typography to stand out with imagery and color.