idea Add multiple images to StoryMaps image content block in ArcGIS StoryMaps Ideas

Add multiple images to StoryMaps image content block

SamPepper — Mon, 07 Sep 2020 12:25:06 GMT

In the same way that multiple images can be used in sidecar slides or guided map, it would be useful to have multiple images within the basic image content block, that the reader can click through.

To give the reader a break from the large and immersive sidecar type blocks, this feature could let the reader decide whether to see more information (i.e. click through more images) rather than forcing them to see all the photos in one long sidecar/slideshow.

This feature is already available inside other content blocks, but not within the image content block itself.

Re: Add multiple images to StoryMaps image content block - Status changed to: Under Consideration

OwenGeo — Tue, 17 Nov 2020 18:07:31 GMT

Re: Add multiple images to StoryMaps image content block

OwenGeo — Tue, 22 Dec 2020 14:57:48 GMT

Hi @SamPepper -- Thanks for posting this idea. Have you considered using a slideshow? Slideshows are designed to contain a series of secondary content items (images, videos, maps). Secondary content is content that isn't critical to the main story that interested readers can take time to explore if they like.

Here's an example story that makes good use of slideshows: Birding in Trinidad.

If slideshow doesn't meet your need, please provide some additional information about how what you are looking for differs from a slideshow so we can understand what you are looking to do.

Re: Add multiple images to StoryMaps image content block

SamPepper — Tue, 22 Dec 2020 15:20:12 GMT

@OwenGeo Thanks for the response. I have considered using a slideshow (and have used it for the particular story that prompted the post), but it has the same issue as the sidecar in that its a massive immersive image taking over the whole screen.

Immersive images are great for many things but in a longer story can be tiring to see too often. The multi-photo block would serve a different purpose of giving the reader a break, but offering extra content for those interested.

Re: Add multiple images to StoryMaps image content block

OwenGeo — Tue, 22 Dec 2020 15:22:10 GMT

@SamPepper -- Great, thank you for the additional context. We've got a few things planned for next year that I think you'll find useful, so stay tuned!

Re: Add multiple images to StoryMaps image content block - Status changed to: In Product Plan

OwenGeo — Tue, 22 Dec 2020 15:22:24 GMT

Re: Add multiple images to StoryMaps image content block

OwenGeo — Thu, 11 Mar 2021 13:15:10 GMT

@SamPepper A new image gallery block was added in Feb 2021. For details see What's new in ArcGIS StoryMaps (February 2021).

Re: Add multiple images to StoryMaps image content block - Status changed to: Implemented

OwenGeo — Thu, 11 Mar 2021 13:15:22 GMT

Re: Add multiple images to StoryMaps image content block

OwenGeo — Sat, 02 Jul 2022 01:35:57 GMT

ArcGIS StoryMaps just added a new image gallery layout called filmstrip. For more information, see What’s new in ArcGIS StoryMaps (June 2022) (esri.com).

Re: Add multiple images to StoryMaps image content block

DerekMStrout — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 13:20:33 GMT

Hi, @OwenGeo,

We are developing a story where the Sidecar format works best for highlighting linear trail segments and would love to be able to include multiple photos in a gallery style as is available in a guided tour. The media enhancements you've introduced over the past few years are great, and we leverage those as well, but it would be great to be able to include a gallery of two or three photos directly within the sidecar narrative panel to maintain continuity as we guide the reader from location to location. Am I missing something in the builder?

Thanks!
Derek

Re: Add multiple images to StoryMaps image content block

OwenGeo — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 16:30:55 GMT

@DerekMStrout -- This is not currently possible, but it is something we have considered. I would encourage you to post this to the ideas board so we can gather more information on how many other people would like to see this.

Here is a similar idea that you can vote for, but I think you are looking to put images in the side panel so you may want to create a new idea for that.