How do I configure Media variables in the Template Studio?
Step 1. Access the image variable settings
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Navigate to "Template Studio" and select the template you want to edit.
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Select the "Variables" tab and open the Media variables.
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Click the Media variable you want to edit, for example "Main Image" to open the configuration panel.
Step 2. Configure general settings and appearance
The General section defines the basic label, appearance behavior and usage constraints.
General settings
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Variable type
Defines the input method and validation rules for the image field. -
Label
The name displayed to the user in the editor, for example "Background image". -
File
Lets you keep or replace the placeholder image in the template.
Settings
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Keep original file
When off, the placeholder appears with light opacity and the final design shows no image unless the user selects one.
When on, the placeholder appears in full opacity and the final design shows the placeholder if the user does not change it. -
Editable by user
When off, the user cannot edit or upload an image.
When on, the user can upload or select another image.
Media source
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Select local storage when you want users to upload images from their own device.
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Select media categories and choose one or more DAM categories when you want users to select from specific curated folders.
Note: If you do not select any categories, all DAM assets will be available.
Advanced options
You can choose where the upload button appears for the user. Options include:
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Bottom right
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Bottom left
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Top right
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Top left
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Centered
Step 3. Define the image source with the variable type
The variable type determines where the image comes from and how the user selects it. This is essential when linking to your Digital Asset Management system.
Media
Allows the user to upload an image from their computer or select one from the DAM.
Use case: Unique or temporary images such as profile photos or promotional graphics.
DNA
Links automatically to a location based image field such as "Location Logo".
Use case: Standardized location branding.
⚠️ Important: The Locations module must be active.
Select
Provides a predefined set of images uploaded by the template administrator.
To configure:
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Enter a label.
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Click "New values".
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Upload one or more approved images.
All images inherit the fitting rules from the original InDesign frame.
Use case: Approved background images or brand graphics.
Step 4. Review the image fitting options
Images always follow the Frame Fitting Options set in the original InDesign document such as Fit Content Proportionally or Fill Frame Proportionally. This applies to all variable images including Select options.
Save your configuration
Click "Save" to apply all settings to the Media variable.
