Can I update an empty image field in my Webflow collection item using the API? I am currently using Google App Script and have no issues updating text-based and boolean-based fields, but when it comes to the image field, I am unable to make any changes. The API response only includes the image field if the CMS item already has an image uploaded, resulting in an error message. I have tried using PUT and PATCH methods, but have had no success. Is there any way to update a blank image field directly from the API? Thank you for any assistance.
TL;DR
- Retrieve item details via a GET request; if the image field is missing, Webflow does not recognize it for updates.
- Use a PATCH request to update only the image field, ensuring the payload includes the field slug and a publicly accessible image URL.
- If updates fail, manually upload a placeholder image to all items to ensure the field exists in Webflow’s API response.
- Verify that the image URL is publicly accessible and the request follows Webflow’s API limits.
If a Webflow CMS item has an empty image field, the API does not include that field in the item’s data, which makes updating it via the API tricky. Webflow’s API requires the image field to exist in the item’s data before it can be updated. Here’s how you can successfully update an empty image field using the API.
1. Ensure the Image Field Exists in the Item
- Retrieve the item’s details with a GET request to the Webflow API.
- If the image field is missing from the response, it means Webflow doesn’t recognize it as an updatable field.
2. Use the "Live" CMS Item Endpoint
- If you're trying to update a live CMS item, ensure you're making a PUT request to:
PATCH /collections/{collection_id}/items/{item_id}/publish - If the item is in draft mode, first update the item, then publish it.
3. Structure Your API Request Correctly
- Use a PATCH request to update only the image field instead of overwriting all fields.
- Ensure your payload includes the format:
```json
{
"fields": {
"image_field_slug": "IMAGE_URL"
}
}
``` - Replace
image_field_slugwith the actual field slug. - Use a publicly accessible direct image URL (Webflow requires direct links).
4. Workaround: Pre-fill Image Field with a Placeholder
- If updates aren’t working, try manually uploading a placeholder image to all items initially.
- This ensures the image field exists in Webflow’s API response, allowing later updates via API.
5. Check Webflow API Limits
- Webflow API has limitations on image uploads. If it’s not working, verify:
- The image URL is publicly accessible.
- The request follows Webflow’s rate limits.
Summary
Webflow’s API doesn’t include empty image fields in CMS items, preventing direct updates. To work around this, manually pre-fill all image fields with a placeholder, then update using a PATCH request with a direct image URL.