Replace layer with photo

[Joel Ware]

Hello, I have been sent a template from a company for a banner design, and I need help with replacing layers with photos. I have the photos ready to import, but I can't find a way to directly insert them into the 4 coloured shapes that are already on the template. How can this be done? 

[Doug A Roberts · Accepted solution]

Objects in Illustrator don't act as frames as they might in something like InDesign.

You might work this way:

1. Place the photo (Ctrl + Shift + P)

2. Scale/position it as you need.

3. Move it below the shape you want to act as a frame.

4. Select both the photo and the object and create a clipping mask (Ctrl + 7).