How to Create Horizontal Scrolling Images in Squarespace 2026, with Auto Play & Thumbnails
By Impran M N
A horizontal scrolling image gallery is a great way to showcase a portfolio, product line, or photo collection in an interactive format. This guide covers setting up an image section, switching it to slideshow view, and enabling thumbnails and autoplay.
01Log in and open the editor
Sign in to Squarespace, select the website you want to edit, and enter the site editor.
02Add an Images section
Click Add Section, then choose the Images tab and select Gallery View to organize your images.
03Switch to Slideshow Simple
Click Edit Section, open the Grid dropdown, and choose Slideshow Simple to convert the layout into a scrolling slideshow.
04Enable thumbnails and autoplay
Turn on the thumbnails option so visitors can preview each image, then enable autoplay so the slideshow progresses without manual navigation.
05Adjust the slide duration
Scale the slide duration to a pace that keeps the gallery engaging without feeling rushed or too slow.
Frequently asked questions
Does Squarespace support autoplay for image galleries?
Yes, once you're in Slideshow Simple layout, you can toggle autoplay so the images advance automatically.
What's the difference between grid and slideshow layouts?
Grid layout displays images in a static arrangement, while Slideshow Simple creates a scrolling, sequential presentation.
Can I show thumbnails alongside the main slideshow?
Yes, turning on the thumbnails option adds a preview strip so visitors can jump to specific images.
How do I control how fast the slideshow moves?
Adjust the slide duration setting in the gallery section to speed up or slow down the pacing.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.



