Fix Images Disappearing in SharePoint Multiple Lines of Text Columns
Question details
Images pasted into a SharePoint list's multiple lines of text column fail to save and disappear.
- Product
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Pasting and saving inline images into a Multiple Lines of Text column within a SharePoint list.
- Observed behavior
- Images disappear after saving the list item in the modern editing experience, but they display and save correctly when using the classic experience.
Ensure you have the necessary permissions to edit items in the SharePoint list and verify whether you are currently viewing the site in the modern or classic SharePoint experience.
Switch to the Classic SharePoint Experience
Edit and save the item using SharePoint's classic experience, where the image saving functionality in text columns works correctly.
Testing shows that this issue is specific to the modern editing experience. Reverting to the classic experience temporarily allows the rich text editor to process and save inline images properly.
Navigate to the SharePoint list where the issue occurs. Look for the 'Return to classic SharePoint' link, usually located at the bottom left corner of the page, and click it.
Open the specific list item you want to modify and paste your images into the Multiple Lines of Text column.
Click 'Save' to keep the changes. Verify that the images now display correctly within the column.
Submit a Service Request to Microsoft
If the issue persists or your organization strictly requires the modern experience, report the limitation to Microsoft support.
Try WPS Office for Your Document Needs
While SharePoint list issues require Microsoft's platform to fix, you can handle all your rich-text documents, spreadsheets, and presentations using WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, free alternative to Microsoft Office with seamless format compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do images disappear only in the SharePoint modern experience?
The modern editing experience in SharePoint handles rich text and inline images differently than the classic experience. Currently, this can cause a known limitation or defect where pasted images fail to save properly in multiple lines of text columns.
How do I permanently switch back to the modern SharePoint experience?
If you switched to the classic experience, you can return by closing the browser and reopening it, or by clicking the 'Exit classic experience' link if available. Site administrators can also control the default experience in the site settings.
Can I use file attachments instead of pasting images into the text column?
Yes, as a reliable workaround in the modern experience, you can attach images directly to the SharePoint list item using the 'Add attachment' feature rather than pasting them inline within the text column.
