How to mask images in Keynote into circles?

Question

I have a bunch of photos that I need on a single slide, and I'd like them all to be shown as circles.

Can I do that out-of-the-box with Keynote?

awendt · Accepted Answer · 2015-10-02 13:21:01Z

59

Yes.

This works for any shape. Here's how:

Draw a shape.
Resize it to the desired size.
Position the shape over the image.
Select both by shift-clicking them.
Choose Format → Image → Mask with Shape from the menu (these menu items are from Keynote 6.5.2, might be different for your version)
Mask the image as you'd usually do (by dragging, resizing).
Click Done.

answered Oct 2, 2015 at 13:21

awendt

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2

In older versions, e.g. Keynote 09 v 5.3 (1170), it's... Format > Mask with Shape > Oval, which starts as a circle and can be sized to include both circles and ovals.
– user3439894
Oct 2, 2015 at 13:40

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bjbk · Accepted Answer · 2015-10-30 03:54:33Z

31

Actually, it is unnecessary to create a shape in order to mask the image.

Now drag the mask as desired.

Set this image as a Media Placeholder by selecting the image then, Format > Advanced > Define as Media Placeholder

Copy the image as many times as desired on the slide and then drag new images to them. The mask will be applied to the new image as well.

Masking Image menu

Apply Mask

Masked image result

answered Oct 13, 2015 at 14:45

bjbk

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Hey thank you for the reply! I am struggling to get this working for Keynote 10.1. Any ideas?
– layser
Jul 19, 2020 at 18:35
All you have to do, usually, is make sure the image you want masked has been selected then follow the menu instructions above. What issue in particular are you facing? Cheers
– bjbk
Jul 19, 2020 at 18:37
In Keynote 11 this is on the Format/Arrange alternatives side panel. Union, Subtract, ... as icons at the bottom of that dialogue.
– thoni56
Apr 12, 2021 at 7:45

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