Using the Image Tool /

Modifying Image Files in Media Repository

The functionality described in this topic is available in HelpSmith Professional (or higher) edition only.

When you use the Image Tool to edit an image which is located in a topic, the changes made to the image do not modify the original image file stored in the project's media repository.

For example, if you add annotations to an image, it does not modify the image file since the annotations are editable objects that are stored in the topic directly, but not in the media repository. Also, if you use the Replace Image button to update an existing screenshot, or if you use the Crop Tool to modify the image, this will create a new image file in the project's the media repository.

However, in some cases, you may need to modify an existing image file directly in the media repository. For example, this is useful when you need to update a screenshot file with a newer version, so the image will be automatically updated in the topics where it is used. As a result, you will also avoid creating an unnecessary file in the media repository.

Create a New Image File by Using the Screenshot Tool

You can create a new image file by capturing a screenshot directly in the media repository window:

1.On the Project tab, in the Project group, click Project Objects.

2.In the popup menu, click Media Repository.

3.In the Project Media window, click Create Screenshot.

4.In the Image Tool, click Capture by Mouse to create a screenshot.

5.Click OK.

Remark: The captured screenshot will be added as a new image file to the media repository.

Update an Existing Image File by Using the Screenshot Tool

You can replace an existing image file with a newer screenshot directly in the media repository window:

1.On the Project tab, in the Project group, click Project Objects.

2.In the popup menu, click Media Repository.

3.In the Project Media window, select the image file that you want to update.

4.In the Project Media window, on the toolbar, click Edit.

5.In the Image Tool, click Capture by Mouse to create a screenshot.

6.Click OK.

Remark: Modifying an existing image file in the media repository will automatically update the image objects using this file in the topics.

Modify an Existing Image File with the Crop Tool

You can modify an existing image file by using the Crop Tool directly in the media repository window:

1.On the Project tab, in the Project group, click Project Objects.

2.In the popup menu, click Media Repository.

3.In the Project Media window, select the image file that you want to modify.

4.In the Project Media window, on the toolbar, click Edit.

5.In the Image Tool, select the area to which you want to reduce the image, then click Crop to Selection.

6.Click OK.

Remark: Modifying an existing image file in the media repository will automatically update the image objects using this file in the topics.