How to use pictures as Excel chart columns

Excel provides a variety of chart types including column and bar charts to present your data. However, you don't have to use the preset column and bar layouts. Instead, you can swap them out for chart-themed images or icons to grab people's attention. Here's how to use pictures as Excel chart bars .

Instructions for using images as Excel chart columns

Step 1:

First you create a chart in Excel as usual.

How to use pictures as Excel chart columns

Next, you download the image and remove the background of the image . You should use the PNG image you want to replace the column in Excel. Next, use the image background removal feature in Excel to remove the background around the image.

How to use pictures as Excel chart columns

Step 2:

Click on the first image and press Ctrl+C to copy the image. Next, click on the first chart column twice , the first click will select all columns and the second click will isolate that column. Note that you do not double click. If you do it correctly, you will see the 4 sides of the column selected as shown below.

How to use pictures as Excel chart columns

Step 3:

Now you just need to press Ctrl+V to paste the image to replace the column . The result is that you will see the image replace the Excel chart column.

How to use pictures as Excel chart columns

We continue to paste the remaining images into the columns and get a new chart as shown below. The image automatically aligns to exactly match the height of each column in the Excel chart.

How to use pictures as Excel chart columns

Video tutorial on using images to make Excel column charts

Leave a Comment

Couples Costume Ideas for 2026: Iconic Pairs and Clever Tropes

Couples Costume Ideas for 2026: Iconic Pairs and Clever Tropes

Find a couples costume that fits your style, budget, and comfort level, from Addams Family classics to original inside-joke duos.

Last-Minute High School Halloween Costumes That Take 5 Minutes

Last-Minute High School Halloween Costumes That Take 5 Minutes

Need a last-minute high school Halloween costume? Compare 10 easy closet-based ideas by prep time, comfort, school-day practicality, and simple safety checks.

When to Start Decorating for Halloween in 2026

When to Start Decorating for Halloween in 2026

Use a simple 2026 Halloween decorating timeline for indoor décor, outdoor displays, and fresh pumpkins, with practical adjustments for weather and events.

5 Halloween Cocktails That Are Easy to Serve at Your 2026 Bash

5 Halloween Cocktails That Are Easy to Serve at Your 2026 Bash

Mix five vivid, approachable Halloween cocktails with measured recipes, simple prep tips, and an alcohol-free option for your party guests.

15 HR-Approved Office Halloween Costumes for 2026

15 HR-Approved Office Halloween Costumes for 2026

Find 15 office-friendly Halloween costume ideas for 2026, with practical checks for dress codes, respectful themes, comfort, and workplace safety.

Spooky but Sweet: Halloween Party Ideas for Elementary Schools

Spooky but Sweet: Halloween Party Ideas for Elementary Schools

Plan a fun elementary school Halloween party with easy crafts, games, inclusive treats, costume tips, and a sample 75-minute classroom schedule.

Side Hustles That Actually Pay in 2026: 7 Realistic Options and the Tradeoffs to Know

Side Hustles That Actually Pay in 2026: 7 Realistic Options and the Tradeoffs to Know

Compare realistic side hustles for 2026 by startup cost, fees, flexibility, and income control, with current tax and scam guidance from official sources.

Remote Work Ergonomics in 2026: Upgrade Your Home Office Without Overbuying

Remote Work Ergonomics in 2026: Upgrade Your Home Office Without Overbuying

Upgrade your home office ergonomics with current OSHA and NIOSH guidance on chair fit, monitor height, laptop setup, lighting, and movement.

Why Emotional Intelligence Matters in Leadership—and How to Build It

Why Emotional Intelligence Matters in Leadership—and How to Build It

Learn why emotional intelligence matters in leadership, where it helps most, how to strengthen it, and how to tell whether your approach is working.

How to Transition to a Tech Career Without a Degree: A Results-First Roadmap for 2026

How to Transition to a Tech Career Without a Degree: A Results-First Roadmap for 2026

A practical roadmap for moving into tech without a degree: choose an accessible role, build job-ready skills, prove them with projects, and use hiring feedback to improve.