Move a frame or its content

Last updated on Jun 2, 2026

Learn how to move frames or reposition graphics within frames in Adobe InDesign using selection tools and modifier keys.

In InDesign, you can move a frame, the graphic inside the frame, or both together. This flexibility helps you adjust cropping and refine image placement without changing the frame size or reimporting the graphic.

Move content only

Select the Direct Selection tool.

Select the graphic to move the content without moving the frame.

Drag the graphic to reposition it within the frame boundary.

Move frame only

Select the frame using the Selection tool.

Using the Direct Selection tool, select any edge of the frame border (not the content).

Drag the frame border to reposition the frame without moving its content.

Move the frame and the content together

Select the Selection tool.

Select the graphic outside the content grabber (the circular icon in the center of the graphic).

Drag the frame to move it.