Master the Art of Creating Swipeable Image Carousels in Figma

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Creating the Frame for the Image Carousel
3. Setting the Size of the Photos
4. Creating a Photo Component
5. Creating a Photo Container Component
6. Using the Photo Container Component
7. Creating the Image Carousel
8. Adding Variants to the Image Carousel
9. Aligning the Photos in the Image Carousel
10. Prototyping the Image Carousel
11. Customizing the Image Carousel
12. Conclusion

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will be exploring how to Create a swipeable image carousel in Figma. An image carousel is a useful component for mobile and web apps that allows users to browse through a collection of images. We will focus on creating a carousel that is interactive and animated. By the end of this tutorial, You will be able to create your own image carousel using the techniques demonstrated.

1. Creating the Frame for the Image Carousel

To start, we need to create a frame for the image carousel. Select the frame tool and choose the appropriate device, such as the iPhone 13 Pro. Name the frame and duplicate it to serve as a reference for the width of our elements. Make sure to enable the device frame in the prototype settings for better visualization of the final result.

2. Setting the Size of the Photos

Next, we will determine the appropriate size for the photos in the carousel. Aim for a width of around 280 pixels for the expanded photo and slightly less for the smaller version. Create a rectangle frame for the main photo and remove the rectangle Shape. Set the Dimensions to 270 x 380 pixels for a vertical format. Make this frame a component called "photo".

3. Creating a Photo Component

Duplicate the photo component to create an instance. Instances are copies of components that reflect changes made to the original component. Create a new component called "photo container" that will contain an instance of the photo component. Add a variant to the photo container component, naming it "small". Change the size of the photo instance within the photo container component to match the dimensions of the smaller photo.

4. Creating a Photo Container Component

Add another instance of the photo component inside the photo container component. Duplicate this instance to create multiple photos for the carousel. Use the auto layout feature to arrange the photos in a row. Name this auto layout frame and make sure the alignment is set to "left center right". Set the constraints for the photos to Scale horizontally and vertically.

5. Using the Photo Container Component

Duplicate the photo container component to create multiple instances. Make sure to adjust the size of the photos in each instance to match the desired variant (small or big). Arrange the instances to form the complete image carousel. Ensure all the photos are aligned properly by selecting the auto layout frame and adjusting the distances between the photos.

6. Creating the Image Carousel

Create a new frame for the image carousel using the frame tool. Set the dimensions to 390 x 380 pixels. Name this frame "image carousel slider". Duplicate this frame to create multiple variants of the image carousel for different positions of the photos. Set the clip content property to hide the excess parts of the photos.

7. Adding Variants to the Image Carousel

Create a variant for each position of the photos in the image carousel. Name the variants accordingly. In each variant, select the photo container within the photo container component and change the size from small to big. This will adjust the size of the photos in the carousel.

8. Aligning the Photos in the Image Carousel

Ensure the photos in the image carousel are aligned properly by adjusting their positions. Calculate the amount by which you need to move the photos using the x-values. Subtract this amount from the x-position of each photo in the auto layout frame. This will ensure the photos are positioned correctly in each variant of the carousel.

9. Prototyping the Image Carousel

Set up the interactions in the prototype mode. Connect the photo container in the first photo to the Second variant of the image carousel. Use the "on drag" trigger and select the "smart animate" option with a duration of 300 milliseconds. Repeat this process for the other photos, connecting each one to the corresponding variant in the carousel.

10. Customizing the Image Carousel

Customize the appearance of the image carousel according to your preferences. For example, you can add rounding to the photo container to give it rounded corners. Make sure to set the constraints for the photos to scale in order to maintain their visibility. You can also modify individual photos within the variants, and these changes will be reflected throughout the carousel.

11. Conclusion

In conclusion, creating a swipeable image carousel in Figma allows for interactive and engaging user experiences. By following the steps outlined in this tutorial, you can easily create your own image carousel with animated transitions. Experiment with different variations and customization options to make your carousel unique and visually appealing.

Highlights

• Learn how to create a swipeable image carousel in Figma
• Use components and variants to efficiently design and customize the carousel
• Set up interactive and animated transitions using the prototype mode
• Customize the appearance of the carousel to suit your design preferences
• Create a responsive and engaging user experience with the image carousel

FAQ

Q: Can I use this image carousel in my own projects? A: Yes, you can reuse this image carousel in your own projects. Simply follow the steps outlined in this tutorial and adapt it to your specific requirements.

Q: Can I customize the appearance of the image carousel? A: Yes, you can customize the appearance of the image carousel to match your design preferences. You can modify the size, position, and styling of the components to achieve the desired look.

Q: How do I add more photos to the image carousel? A: To add more photos to the image carousel, duplicate the photo container component and adjust the size and position of the photos accordingly. You can also create additional variants in the image carousel to accommodate the new photos.

Q: Can I create multiple image carousels in the same project? A: Yes, you can create multiple image carousels in the same project by duplicating the necessary components and frames. Make sure to adjust the properties and connections of each carousel to ensure they function independently.

Q: How can I make the image carousel responsive? A: To make the image carousel responsive, you can use Figma's layout grids and constraints. By setting appropriate constraints and adjusting the layout, you can ensure that the carousel adapts to different screen sizes and orientations.