MapFrame

Summary

The MapFrame object is a layout element that is used to display the contents of a map. It also provides access to layout size, positioning on the layout, basic navigation methods, and export options.

Discussion

A MapFrame is a layout element that displays the geographic information added to a map. The listElements method on the Layout object returns a Python list of layout elements. To return a list of only map frames, use the MAPFRAME_ELEMENT constant for the element_type parameter. A wildcard can also be used to further refine the search based on the element's name.

The createMapFrame method on the Layout class will also return a map frame reference.

Once a MapFrame is referenced, the properties and methods allow you to do a variety of operations. First, There are basic properties that allow your to control the size, positioning, and visibility of the map frame on the layout. Second, there are several navigation methods such as panToExtent, zoomToAllLayers, and zoomToBookmark that allow you to modify the area of interest that is displayed in the map frame. Third, the map property allows you to change or get access to the associated map. From here, you can directly manage the layers, tables and basemaps in the map and also get access to the map's camera information, which allows you to modify the area of interest even more. You can switch maps of the same dimension or different dimensions. Finally, there are a number of export methods that allow you to export the map frame into a variety of export formats.

Tip:

Exporting a MapFrame on a layout will produce more consistent results than trying to export a MapView outside of the application. A limitation of exporting a MapView is that map views only work with Python scripts run inside of the application. This is because the size of the window and the area of interest is only known when the application and its view panes are open.MapFrame export has all of the sizing information persisted in the element so scripts run from inside the application or run as stand-alone scripts outside the application will produce the same export result.

Properties

PropertyExplanationData Type
anchor
(Read Only)

Returns one of the following string values that represent the current anchor position. To change the value, use the setAnchor method.

  • BOTTOM_LEFT_CORNERBottom left corner position
  • BOTTOM_MID_POINTBottom center position
  • BOTTOM_RIGHT_CORNERBottom right corner position
  • CENTER_POINTCenter position
  • LEFT_MID_POINTLeft center position
  • RIGHT_MID_POINTRight center position
  • TOP_LEFT_CORNERTop left corner position
  • TOP_MID_POINTTop center position
  • TOP_RIGHT_CORNERTop right corner position
String
camera
(Read and Write)

The Camera controls the location and viewing positions of the data being displayed within a map frame.

Camera
elementHeight
(Read and Write)

The height of the map frame on the page layout. The units assigned or reported are in page units.

Double
elementPositionX
(Read and Write)

The x-location of the map frame's anchor position. The units assigned or reported are in page units.

Double
elementPositionY
(Read and Write)

The y-location of the map frame's anchor position. The units assigned or reported are in page units.

Double
elementRotation
(Read and Write)

The map frame's rotation angle in degrees. Positive values rotate clockwise and negative values rotate counterclockwise. This is the angle of the map frame on the layout, not the rotation of the data. Use the heading property on the camera to rotate the data.

Double
elementWidth
(Read and Write)

The width of the map frame on the page layout. The units assigned or reported are in page units.

Double
locked
(Read and Write)

When set to True, the element cannot be graphically selected in the layout view.

Boolean
map
(Read and Write)

The Map being displayed in the map frame.

Map
name
(Read and Write)

The name of the element. It is important that all elements have a unique name so they can be uniquely referenced using the wildcard parameter with the listElements function on the Layout object.

String
time
(Read Only)

Returns a MapTime object if time-enabled layers are present in the map frame. A value of None is returned if the map frame contains no time-enabled layers.

Tip:

The enableTime method on the Layer class allows you to enable time on a layer that has time information, making access to LayerTime and MapTime properties possible.

MapTime
type
(Read Only)

Returns a value of MAPFRAME_ELEMENT.

String
visible
(Read and Write)

Returns True if the map frame is visible on the layout. Rather than having to move unwanted objects off the page before printing or exporting, you can turn the element's visibility on and off.

Boolean

Method Overview

MethodExplanation
addGrid (style_item)

The addGrid method adds a grid or graticule to a MapFrame using a style item.

convertGridToFeatures (grid_name, output_geodatabase, {new_grid_name})

Converts a MapFrame grid or graticule into geodatabase features.

createBookmark ({name}, {description})

The createBookmark method creates a bookmark for the map associated with the map frame using the current camera settings.

export (export_format)

The export method exports a MapFrame using a specified export format.

exportToAIX (out_aix, {resolution}, {image_quality}, {compress_vector_graphics}, {image_compression}, {jpeg_compression_quality}, {embed_fonts}, {embed_color_profile}, {convert_markers})

Exports the MapFrame to Adobe Illustrator Exchange (AIX) format. AIX files can be used with the ArcGIS Maps for Adobe Creative Cloud extension or Adobe Illustrator.

exportToBMP (out_bmp, {resolution}, {world_file}, {bmp_color_mode}, {bmp_image_compression}, {embed_color_profile})

Exports the MapFrame to a Microsoft Windows Bitmap (BMP) format file.

exportToEMF (out_emf, {resolution}, {image_quality}, {output_as_image}, {convert_markers})

Exports the MapFrame to an Enhanced Metafile (EMF) format file.

exportToEPS (out_eps, {resolution}, {image_compression}, {image_quality}, {embed_fonts}, {output_as_image}, {convert_markers})

Exports the MapFrame to an Encapsulated PostScript (EPS) format file.

exportToGIF (out_gif, {resolution}, {world_file}, {gif_color_mode})

Exports the MapFrame to a Graphic Interchange Format (GIF) file.

exportToJPEG (out_jpg, {resolution}, {world_file}, {jpeg_color_mode}, {jpeg_quality}, {embed_color_profile})

Exports the MapFrame to the Joint Photographic Experts Group (JPEG) format.

exportToPDF (out_pdf, {resolution}, {image_quality}, {compress_vector_graphics}, {image_compression}, {embed_fonts}, {layers_attributes}, {georef_info}, {jpeg_compression_quality}, {output_as_image}, {embed_color_profile}, {convert_markers}, {simulate_overprint})

Exports the MapFrame to a Portable Document Format (PDF) file.

exportToPNG (out_png, {resolution}, {world_file}, {color_mode}, {embed_color_profile})

Exports the MapFrame to Portable Network Graphics (PNG) format.

exportToSVG (out_svg, {resolution}, {compress_to_svgz}, {image_quality}, {embed_fonts}, {output_as_image}, {convert_markers})

Exports the MapFrame to a Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) format file.

exportToTGA (out_tga, {resolution}, {world_file}, {color_mode})

Exports the MapFrame to a Truevision Graphics Adapter (TGA) format file.

exportToTIFF (out_tif, {resolution}, {world_file}, {color_mode}, {tiff_compression}, {geoTIFF_tags}, {jpeg_compression_quality}, {embed_color_profile})

Exports the MapFrame to Tagged Image File Format (TIFF).

getDefinition (cim_version)

Returns a map frame element's CIM definition.

getLayerExtent (layer, {selection_only}, {symbolized_extent})

Returns a layer's extent for all features or only the selected features in a layer.

panToExtent (extent)

Pans and centers the MapFrame using a new Extent object without changing the map frame's scale.

removeGrids ({wildcard})

The removeGrids method removes one or more grids or graticules from a map frame.

setAnchor (anchor)

The setAnchor method controls the anchor position for a MapFrame element.

setDefinition (definition_object)

Sets a map frame element's CIM definition.

zoomToAllLayers ({selection_only}, {symbolized_extent})

Modifies the MapFrame view to match the extent of all layers or selected layers in a map.

zoomToBookmark (bookmark)

Modifies the MapFrame view to match the view information stored with a spatial bookmark.

Methods

addGrid (style_item)
ParameterExplanationData Type
style_item

The reference to a grid StyleItem object using the listStyleItems method on the ArcGISProject class.

StyleItem

The addGrid method adds a grid or graticule to the topmost position if grids or graticules are already present. To change the order of how the grids and graticules appear in the Contents pane, first remove all the grids or graticules using the removeGrids method. Then, add them back starting with the bottommost grid using the addGrid method and work up to the topmost position.

convertGridToFeatures (grid_name, output_geodatabase, {new_grid_name})
ParameterExplanationData Type
grid_name

The name of the grid or graticule the way it appears in the Contents pane.

String
output_geodatabase

The full path to a file geodatabase (*.gdb) or an enterprise geodatabase (*.sde) including the geodatabase name and extension.

String
new_grid_name

The new name of the group layer added to the map frame's map that will contain all the resulting feature layers. This value will also be added to the GridName field in each feature class table.

String

It is possible to have multiple grids and graticules associated with a map frame. Each one can be converted into features as long as a unique new_grid_name value is used. If the same value is used, features will be overwritten.

createBookmark ({name}, {description})
ParameterExplanationData Type
name

An string that represents the name of the new bookmark. If a name is not provided, the default name will follow the sequencing nomenclature, for example, Bookmark, Bookmark [1], Bookmark [2].

String
description

A string that represents the bookmark's description. If not specified, the value is an empty string.

String
Return Value
Data TypeExplanation
Bookmark

A bookmark object.

This method returns a reference to a new bookmark class. See the code example in the Bookmark class help topic.

export (export_format)
ParameterExplanationData Type
export_format

The supported export format objects are: AIXFormat, BMPFormat, EMFFormat, EPSFormat, GIFFormat, JPEGFormat, PDFFormat, PNGFormat, SVGFormat, TGAFormat and TIFFFormat.

Object

Go to the specific export format to learn more details and get code samples.

exportToAIX (out_aix, {resolution}, {image_quality}, {compress_vector_graphics}, {image_compression}, {jpeg_compression_quality}, {embed_fonts}, {embed_color_profile}, {convert_markers})
ParameterExplanationData Type
out_aix

A string that represents the path and file name for the output export file.

String
resolution

A number that defines the resolution of the export file in dots per inch (dpi).

(The default value is 300)

Integer
image_quality

A string that specifies output image quality, the draw resolution of map layers that draw as rasters.

  • BESTAn output image quality resample ratio of 1
  • BETTERAn output image quality resample ratio of 2
  • NORMALAn output image quality resample ratio of 3
  • FASTERAn output image quality resample ratio of 4
  • FASTESTAn output image quality resample ratio of 5

(The default value is BEST)

String
compress_vector_graphics

A Boolean that controls compression of vector and text portions of the output file. Image compression is defined separately.

(The default value is True)

Boolean
image_compression

A string that specifies the compression scheme used to compress image or raster data in the output file.

  • ADAPTIVEAutomatically selects the best compression type for each image on the page. JPEG will be used for large images with many unique colors. DEFLATE will be used for all other images.
  • DEFLATEA lossless data compression.
  • JPEGA lossy data compression.
  • JPEG2000Offers higher quality compression with smaller file size than JPEG. This compression is lossless if jpeg_compression_quality is set to 100.
  • LZWLempel-Ziv-Welch, a lossless data compression.
  • NONECompression is not applied.
  • RLERun-length encoded compression.

(The default value is ADAPTIVE)

String
jpeg_compression_quality

A number that controls compression quality value when image_compression is set to ADAPTIVE or JPEG. The valid range is 1 through 100. A jpeg_compression_quality of 100 provides the best quality images but creates large export files. The recommended range is between 70 and 90.

(The default value is 80)

Integer
embed_fonts

A Boolean that controls the embedding of fonts in the export file. Font embedding allows text and character markers to be displayed correctly when the document is viewed on a computer that does not have the necessary fonts installed.

(The default value is True)

Boolean
embed_color_profile

If set to True, color profile information is embedded in the image's metadata.

(The default value is True)

Boolean
convert_markers

A Boolean that controls the conversion of character-based marker symbols to polygons. This allows the symbols to appear correctly if the symbol font is not available or cannot be embedded. However, setting this parameter to True disables font embedding for all character-based marker symbols, which can result in a change in their appearance.

(The default value is False)

Boolean

AIX is an Adobe Illustrator Exchange file exported from ArcGIS to be used with the ArcGIS Maps for Adobe Creative Cloud plug-in. When used with the plug-in, vector and raster map content is converted into editable, layered artwork for an improved editing experience in Adobe Illustrator. Once opened in Illustrator, it can be used for high-end graphic design or map finishing workflows and migrated across the other Adobe Creative Cloud applications.

exportToBMP (out_bmp, {resolution}, {world_file}, {bmp_color_mode}, {bmp_image_compression}, {embed_color_profile})
ParameterExplanationData Type
out_bmp

A string that represents the path and file name of the output export file.

String
resolution

A number that defines the resolution of the export file in dots per inch (dpi).

(The default value is 96)

Integer
world_file

If set to True, a georeferenced world file is created. The file contains pixel scale information and real-world coordinate information.

(The default value is False)

Boolean
bmp_color_mode

This value specifies the number of bits used to describe color.

  • 8-BIT_ADAPTIVE_PALETTE8-bit adaptive palette
  • 8-BIT_GRAYSCALE8-bit grayscale
  • 24-BIT_TRUE_COLOR24-bit true color

(The default value is 24-BIT_TRUE_COLOR)

String
bmp_image_compression

A string that specifies the compression scheme used to compress image or raster data in the output file. This option only applies to 8-bit bmp_color_mode options.

  • NONECompression is not applied.
  • RLERun-length encoded compression.

(The default value is NONE)

String
embed_color_profile

If set to True, color profile information is embedded in the image's metadata.

(The default value is True)

Boolean

BMP files are native Windows raster images. BMP files can store pixel data at several bit depths. BMP images are typically much larger than other formats such as JPEG or PNG.

exportToEMF (out_emf, {resolution}, {image_quality}, {output_as_image}, {convert_markers})
ParameterExplanationData Type
out_emf

A string that represents the system path and file name of the output export file.

String
resolution

A number that defines the resolution of the export file in dots per inch (dpi).

(The default value is 96)

Integer
image_quality

A string that specifies output image quality, the draw resolution of map layers that draw as rasters.

  • BESTAn output image quality resample ratio of 1
  • BETTERAn output image quality resample ratio of 2
  • NORMALAn output image quality resample ratio of 3
  • FASTERAn output image quality resample ratio of 4
  • FASTESTAn output image quality resample ratio of 5

(The default value is BEST)

String
output_as_image

If set to True, vector content can be saved as an image. Selecting this option for maps or layouts that contain vector layers with a high density of vertices can reduce the output file size. When exporting to PDF and this option is set to True, you cannot view PDF layers in the output.

(The default value is False)

Boolean
convert_markers

A Boolean that controls the conversion of character-based marker symbols to polygons. This allows the symbols to appear correctly if the symbol font is not available or cannot be embedded. However, setting this parameter to True disables font embedding for all character-based marker symbols, which can result in a change in their appearance.

(The default value is False)

Boolean

EMF files are native Windows graphics files that can contain a combination of vector and raster data. They are useful for embedding in Windows documents because the vector portions of the EMF file can be resized without loss of quality. However, since an EMF file does not support font embedding and is exclusively a Windows format, it is not commonly used as an interchange format between users.

exportToEPS (out_eps, {resolution}, {image_compression}, {image_quality}, {embed_fonts}, {output_as_image}, {convert_markers})
ParameterExplanationData Type
out_eps

A string that represents the system path and file name of the output export file.

String
resolution

A number that defines the resolution of the export file in dots per inch (dpi).

(The default value is 96)

Integer
image_compression

A string that specifies the compression scheme used to compress image or raster data in the output file.

  • DEFLATEA lossless data compression.
  • LZWLempel-Ziv-Welch, a lossless data compression.
  • NONECompression is not applied.
  • RLERun-length encoded compression.

(The default value is DEFLATE)

String
image_quality

A string that specifies output image quality, the draw resolution of map layers that draw as rasters.

  • BESTAn output image quality resample ratio of 1.
  • BETTERAn output image quality resample ratio of 2.
  • NORMALAn output image quality resample ratio of 3.
  • FASTERAn output image quality resample ratio of 4.
  • FASTESTAn output image quality resample ratio of 5.

(The default value is BEST)

String
embed_fonts

A Boolean that controls the embedding of fonts in the export file. Font embedding allows text and character markers to be displayed correctly when the document is viewed on a computer that does not have the necessary fonts installed.

(The default value is True)

Boolean
output_as_image

If set to True, vector content can be saved as an image. Selecting this option for maps or layouts that contain vector layers with a high density of vertices can reduce the output file size. When exporting to PDF and this option is set to True, you cannot view PDF layers in the output.

(The default value is False)

Boolean
convert_markers

A Boolean that controls the conversion of character-based marker symbols to polygons. This allows the symbols to appear correctly if the symbol font is not available or cannot be embedded. However, setting this parameter to True disables font embedding for all character-based marker symbols, which can result in a change in their appearance.

(The default value is False)

Boolean

EPS files use the PostScript page description language to describe vector and raster objects. PostScript is the publishing industry standard for high-end graphics files, cartography, and printing. EPS files can be edited in many drawing applications or placed as a graphic in most page layout applications. EPS files support embedding of fonts so users who do not have Esri fonts installed can still view the proper symbology.

exportToGIF (out_gif, {resolution}, {world_file}, {gif_color_mode})
ParameterExplanationData Type
out_gif

A string that represents the system path and file name of the output export file.

String
resolution

A number that defines the resolution of the export file in dots per inch (dpi).

(The default value is 96)

Integer
world_file

If set to True, a georeferenced world file is created. The file contains pixel scale information and real-world coordinate information.

(The default value is False)

Boolean
gif_color_mode

This value specifies the number of bits used to describe color.

  • 8-BIT_ADAPTIVE_PALETTE8-bit adaptive palette
  • 8-BIT_GRAYSCALE8-bit grayscale

(The default value is 8-BIT_ADAPTIVE_PALETTE)

String

GIF files are a legacy raster format for use on the web. GIFs cannot contain more than 256 colors (8-bits per pixel), which along with optional lossless RLE or LZW compression, makes them smaller than other file formats. Like PNGs, GIF files can also define a transparent color. GIFs can be generated with an accompanying world file for use as georeferenced raster data

exportToJPEG (out_jpg, {resolution}, {world_file}, {jpeg_color_mode}, {jpeg_quality}, {embed_color_profile})
ParameterExplanationData Type
out_jpg

A string that represents the path and file name for the output export file.

String
resolution

A number that defines the resolution of the export file in dots per inch (dpi).

(The default value is 96)

Integer
world_file

If set to True, a georeferenced world file is created. The file contains pixel scale information and real-world coordinate information. If you export a 3D map frame, this parameter will be ignored regardless of the setting because world files are not applicable to 3D views.

(The default value is False)

Boolean
jpeg_color_mode

This value specifies the number of bits used to describe color.

  • 8-BIT_GRAYSCALE8-bit grayscale
  • 24-BIT_TRUE_COLOR24-bit true color

(The default value is 24-BIT_TRUE_COLOR)

String
jpeg_quality

This value (0–100) controls the amount of compression applied to the output image. For JPEG, image quality is adversely affected the more compression is applied. A higher quality (highest = 100) setting will produce sharper images and larger file sizes. A lower quality setting will produce more image artifacts and smaller files.

(The default value is 80)

Integer
embed_color_profile

If set to True, color profile information is embedded in the image's metadata.

(The default value is True)

Boolean

JPEG files are compressed image files. They support 24-bit color and are a popular choice for use on the web because a JPEG file size is often substantially smaller than many other image formats. However, the JPEG compression algorithm is lossy and is not recommended for many map images, as line drawings, and text or icon graphics become blurred by compression artifacts. Therefore, PNG is usually a superior format for map images. JPEG files can be generated with an accompanying world file for use as georeferenced raster data.

exportToPDF (out_pdf, {resolution}, {image_quality}, {compress_vector_graphics}, {image_compression}, {embed_fonts}, {layers_attributes}, {georef_info}, {jpeg_compression_quality}, {output_as_image}, {embed_color_profile}, {convert_markers}, {simulate_overprint})
ParameterExplanationData Type
out_pdf

A string that represents the path and file name of the output export file.

String
resolution

A number that defines the resolution of the export file in dots per inch (dpi).

(The default value is 300)

Integer
image_quality

A string that defines the output image quality and the draw resolution of map layers that draw as rasters.

  • BESTAn output image quality resample ratio of 1
  • BETTERAn output image quality resample ratio of 2
  • NORMALAn output image quality resample ratio of 3
  • FASTERAn output image quality resample ratio of 4
  • FASTESTAn output image quality resample ratio of 5

(The default value is BEST)

String
compress_vector_graphics

A Boolean that controls the compression of vector and text portions of the output file. Image compression is defined separately.

(The default value is True)

Boolean
image_compression

A string that defines the compression scheme used to compress image or raster data in the output file.

  • ADAPTIVEAutomatically selects the best compression type for each image on the page. JPEG will be used for large images with many unique colors. DEFLATE will be used for all other images.
  • DEFLATEA lossless data compression.
  • JPEGA lossy data compression.
  • JPEG2000Offers higher quality compression with smaller file size than JPEG. This compression is lossless if jpeg_compression_quality is set to 100.
  • LZWLempel-Ziv-Welch, a lossless data compression.
  • NONECompression is not applied.
  • RLERun-length encoded compression.

(The default value is ADAPTIVE)

String
embed_fonts

A Boolean that controls the embedding of fonts in the export file. Font embedding allows text and character markers to be displayed correctly when the document is viewed on a computer that does not have the necessary fonts installed.

(The default value is True)

Boolean
layers_attributes

A string that controls the inclusion of PDF layers and PDF object data (attributes) in the export file.

  • LAYERS_ONLYExport PDF layers only.
  • LAYERS_AND_ATTRIBUTESExport PDF layers and feature attributes.
  • NONENo setting is applied.

(The default value is LAYERS_ONLY)

String
georef_info

A Boolean that enables the export of coordinate system information for each data frame into the output PDF file.

(The default value is True)

Boolean
jpeg_compression_quality

A number that controls the compression quality value when image_compression is set to ADAPTIVE or JPEG. The valid range is 1 through 100. A jpeg_compression_quality of 100 provides the best quality images but creates large export files. The recommended range is 70 through 90.

(The default value is 80)

Integer
output_as_image

If set to True, vector content can be saved as an image. Selecting this option for maps or layouts that contain vector layers with a high density of vertices can reduce the output file size. When exporting to PDF and this option is set to True, you cannot view PDF layers in the output.

(The default value is False)

Boolean
embed_color_profile

If set to True, color profile information is embedded in the image's metadata.

(The default value is True)

Boolean
convert_markers

A Boolean that controls the conversion of character-based marker symbols to polygons. This allows the symbols to appear correctly if the symbol font is not available or cannot be embedded. However, setting this parameter to True disables font embedding for all character-based marker symbols, which can result in a change in their appearance.

(The default value is False)

Boolean
simulate_overprint

Sometimes called soft proofing, simulating overprinting shows a representation of how overlapping areas of ink will appear when printed on a page. You set up overprinting on symbol layers.

(The default value is False)

Boolean

PDF files are designed to be consistently viewable and printable across different platforms. They are commonly used for distributing documents on the web, and the format is now an official ISO standard for document interchange. PDF files are editable in many graphics applications and retain map georeference information, annotation, labeling, and feature attribute data. PDF exports support embedding of fonts and can display symbology correctly even if the user does not have Esri fonts installed.

Review the PDFDocument class to learn more about how to manage PDF files, such as appending, inserting, and setting properties.

exportToPNG (out_png, {resolution}, {world_file}, {color_mode}, {embed_color_profile})
ParameterExplanationData Type
out_png

A string that represents the path and file name for the output export file.

String
resolution

A number that defines the resolution of the export file in dots per inch (dpi).

(The default value is 96)

Integer
world_file

If set to True, a georeferenced world file is created. The file contains pixel scale information and real-world coordinate information. If you export a 3D map frame, this parameter will be ignored regardless of the setting because world files are not applicable to 3D views.

(The default value is False)

Boolean
color_mode

This value specifies the number of bits used to describe color.

  • 8-BIT_ADAPTIVE_PALETTE8-bit adaptive palette
  • 8-BIT_GRAYSCALE8-bit grayscale
  • 24-BIT_TRUE_COLOR24-bit true color
  • 32-BIT_WITH_ALPHA32-bit with alpha

(The default value is 32-BIT_WITH_ALPHA)

String
embed_color_profile

If set to True, color profile information is embedded in the image's metadata.

(The default value is True)

Boolean

PNG is a versatile raster format that can display in web browsers and when inserted into other documents. It supports high-bit-depth color and uses a lossless compression. For maps, PNG is often the best raster format, since the lossless compression keeps text and line work legible by preventing the compression artifacts that can occur in JPEG format. PNG files can also define a transparent color. PNG files can be generated with an accompanying world file for use as georeferenced raster data.

exportToSVG (out_svg, {resolution}, {compress_to_svgz}, {image_quality}, {embed_fonts}, {output_as_image}, {convert_markers})
ParameterExplanationData Type
out_svg

A string that represents the path and file name of the output export file.

String
resolution

A number that defines the resolution of the export file in dots per inch (dpi).

(The default value is 96)

Integer
compress_to_svgz

If set to True, the output is compressed.

(The default value is False)

Boolean
image_quality

A string that specifies output image quality, the draw resolution of map layers that draw as rasters.

  • BESTAn output image quality resample ratio of 1.
  • BETTERAn output image quality resample ratio of 2.
  • NORMALAn output image quality resample ratio of 3.
  • FASTERAn output image quality resample ratio of 4.
  • FASTESTAn output image quality resample ratio of 5.

(The default value is BEST)

String
embed_fonts

A Boolean that controls the embedding of fonts in the export file. Font embedding allows text and character markers to be displayed correctly when the document is viewed on a computer that does not have the necessary fonts installed.

(The default value is True)

Boolean
output_as_image

If set to True, vector content can be saved as an image. Selecting this option for maps or layouts that contain vector layers with a high density of vertices can reduce the output file size. When exporting to PDF and this option is set to True, you cannot view PDF layers in the output.

(The default value is False)

Boolean
convert_markers

A Boolean that controls the conversion of character-based marker symbols to polygons. This allows the symbols to appear correctly if the symbol font is not available or cannot be embedded. However, setting this parameter to True disables font embedding for all character-based marker symbols, which can result in a change in their appearance.

(The default value is False)

Boolean

The SVG format is an XML-based file format that is specifically designed for viewing on the web. An SVG file can contain both vector and raster information. Some web browsers may require a plug-in to view SVG files. Older browsers may not be able to view SVG files at all. The SVG format supports the embedding of fonts so users who do not have Esri fonts installed can view SVG exports with proper symbology. You can also produce compressed SVG files. The file extension changes to .svgz when this option is enabled.

exportToTGA (out_tga, {resolution}, {world_file}, {color_mode})
ParameterExplanationData Type
out_tga

A string that represents the path and file name of the output export file.

String
resolution

A number that defines the resolution of the export file in dots per inch (dpi).

(The default value is 96)

Integer
world_file

If set to True, a georeferenced world file is created. The file contains pixel scale information and real-world coordinate information.

(The default value is False)

Boolean
color_mode

This value specifies the number of bits used to describe color.

  • 8-BIT_ADAPTIVE_PALETTE8-bit adaptive palette
  • 8-BIT_GRAYSCALE8-bit grayscale
  • 24-BIT_TRUE_COLOR24-bit true color
  • 32-BIT_WITH_ALPHA32-bit with alpha

(The default value is 32-BIT_WITH_ALPHA)

String

TGA files have historically been used for content that is meant to be used in other applications (for example, image sprites for animated games) and is read and written by many popular graphic arts applications. TGA format supports multiple bit depths including 32-bit with alpha (transparency) support.

exportToTIFF (out_tif, {resolution}, {world_file}, {color_mode}, {tiff_compression}, {geoTIFF_tags}, {jpeg_compression_quality}, {embed_color_profile})
ParameterExplanationData Type
out_tif

A string that represents the path and file name for the output export file.

String
resolution

A number that defines the resolution of the export file in dots per inch (dpi).

(The default value is 96)

Integer
world_file

If set to True, a georeferenced world file is created. The file contains pixel scale information and real-world coordinate information. If you export a 3D map frame, this parameter will be ignored regardless of the setting because world files are not applicable to 3D views.

(The default value is False)

Boolean
color_mode

This value specifies the number of bits used to describe color. The available options are dependent on the specified Color Model set in the layout's Color Management properties.

  • 8-BIT_ADAPTIVE_PALETTE8-bit adaptive palette. Available to RGB and CMYK.
  • 8-BIT_GRAYSCALE8-bit grayscale. Available to RGB and CMYK.
  • 24-BIT_TRUE_COLOR24-bit true color. Available only to RGB.
  • 32-BIT_WITH_ALPHA32-bit with alpha. Available only to RGB.
  • 32-BIT_CMYK_TRUE_COLOR32-bit CMYK true color. Available only to CMYK.
  • 40-BIT_CMYK_WITH_ALPHA40-bit CMYK with alpha. Available only to CMYK.

(The default value is 24-BIT_TRUE_COLOR)

String
tiff_compression

This value represents a compression scheme.

  • DEFLATEA lossless data compression.
  • JPEGJPEG compression.
  • LZWLempel-Ziv-Welch, a lossless data compression.
  • NONECompression is not applied.
  • PACK_BITSPack bits compression.

(The default value is LZW)

String
geoTIFF_tags

If set to True, georeferencing tags are included in the structure of the TIFF export file. The tags contain pixel scale information and real-world coordinate information. These tags can be read by applications that support GeoTIFF format.

(The default value is False)

Boolean
jpeg_compression_quality

This value (0–100) controls the amount of compression applied to the output image. With a JPEG image, quality is adversely affected the more compression is applied. A higher quality (highest = 100) setting will produce sharper images and larger file sizes. A lower quality setting will produce more image artifacts and smaller files.

(The default value is 80)

Integer
embed_color_profile

If set to True, color profile information is embedded in the image's metadata.

(The default value is True)

Boolean

TIFF files are the best choice for importing into image editing applications and are also a common GIS raster data format. However, they cannot be natively viewed by a web browser. TIFF files also support georeferencing information in GeoTIFF tags or in a separate world file for use as raster data.

getDefinition (cim_version)
ParameterExplanationData Type
cim_version

A string that represents the major version of the CIM that will be used.

  • V2The 2.x version of the CIM will be used.
  • V3The 3.x version of the CIM will be used.
String
Return Value
Data TypeExplanation
Object

Returns the CIM definition for a MapFrame value.

For more information about working with the CIM and samples, see Python CIM access.

getLayerExtent (layer, {selection_only}, {symbolized_extent})
ParameterExplanationData Type
layer

A reference to a Layer object.

Layer
selection_only

If True, it returns the extent for selected features; if False, it returns the extent for all features.

(The default value is True)

Boolean
symbolized_extent

A value of True will return the layer's symbolized extent; otherwise, it will return the geometric extent. The symbolized extent takes into account the area the symbology covers so that it does not get cut off by the data frame's boundary.

(The default value is True)

Boolean
Return Value
Data TypeExplanation
Extent

A geoprocessing Extent object.

The getLayerExtent method will honor a layer's definition query, so if a subset of features are queried, it will return the extent for only those features. If there are no selected features, the extent for the layer will be returned.

panToExtent (extent)
ParameterExplanationData Type
extent

A geoprocessing Extent object.

Extent

This method is perfect for situations where the MapFrame scale should not change but the location should. Rather than setting the extent and then having to reset the scale each time, panToExtent maintains the scale and centers the current map frame on the new extent.

removeGrids ({wildcard})
ParameterExplanationData Type
wildcard

A wildcard is based on the grid or graticule name in the Contents pane and is not case sensitive. A combination of asterisks (*) and characters can be used to limit the resulting list.

(The default value is None)

String

If no wildcard value is specified, all grids and graticules will be removed from the map frame. If a wildcard value is specified, all grids or graticules that meet its condition will be removed.

setAnchor (anchor)
ParameterExplanationData Type
anchor

A string that specifies the location of the anchor position.

  • BOTTOM_LEFT_CORNERThe anchor will be set at the bottom left corner position.
  • BOTTOM_MID_POINTThe anchor will be set at the bottom center position.
  • BOTTOM_RIGHT_CORNERThe anchor will be set at the bottom right corner position.
  • CENTER_POINTThe anchor will be set at the center position.
  • LEFT_MID_POINTThe anchor will be set at the left center position.
  • RIGHT_MID_POINTThe anchor will be set at the right center position.
  • TOP_LEFT_CORNERThe anchor will be set at the top left corner position.
  • TOP_MID_POINTThe anchor will be set at the top center position.
  • TOP_RIGHT_CORNERThe anchor will be set at the top right corner position.
String

Setting the anchor position is helpful because you can control how the element might expand when resized. For example, the default anchor position for a map frame element is BOTTOM_LEFT_CORNER. If you change the anchor location to TOP_RIGHT_CORNER, changing elementHeight will expand the element downward instead of upward (the default), and changing elementWidth will expand the element to the left.

setDefinition (definition_object)
ParameterExplanationData Type
definition_object

A modified CIM definition object originally retrieved using getDefinition.

Object

For more information about working with the CIM and samples, see Python CIM access.

zoomToAllLayers ({selection_only}, {symbolized_extent})
ParameterExplanationData Type
selection_only

If True, it sets the extent based on the selected features; if False, it sets the extent for all features in a map.

(The default value is True)

Boolean
symbolized_extent

A value of True will return the layer's symbolized extent; otherwise, it will return the geometric extent. The symbolized extent takes into account the area the symbology covers so that it does not get cut off by the map frame's boundary.

(The default value is True)

Boolean

If zoomToAllLayers is used on a MapFrame with a global or local scene, the result will be a planimetric view.

zoomToBookmark (bookmark)
ParameterExplanationData Type
bookmark

A reference to a Bookmark object.

Bookmark

If a 3D bookmark is used for a MapFrame referencing a 2D Map, or the other way around, the result will be a planimetric view.

Code sample

MapFrame example 1

The following script sets the map frame extent in a variety of ways and exports each result to PDF. It first sets the extent using feature selection. Next it zooms to a single layer's extent and applies a slight buffer. Finally, it does the same but zooms to the extent of each feature.

import arcpy, os
aprx = arcpy.mp.ArcGISProject(r'C:\Projects\GreatLakes\GreatLakes.aprx')

m = aprx.listMaps('Map')[0]
lyr = m.listLayers('GreatLakes')[0]
lyt = aprx.listLayouts('Layout')[0]
mf = lyt.listElements('mapframe_element', 'Map Frame')[0]

#Zoom to ALL selected features and export to PDF
arcpy.SelectLayerByAttribute_management(lyr, 'NEW_SELECTION', "NAME = 'Lake Superior'")
mf.zoomToAllLayers(True)
mf.exportToPDF(r'C:\Projects\GreatLakes\Selection.pdf')
arcpy.SelectLayerByAttribute_management(lyr, 'CLEAR_SELECTION')

#Set the map frame extent to the extent of a layer and export to PDF
mf.camera.setExtent(mf.getLayerExtent(lyr, False, True))
mf.camera.scale = mf.camera.scale * 1.1 #add a slight buffer
mf.exportToPDF(r'C:\Projects\GreatLakes\GreatLakesExtent.pdf')

#Set the map frame extent based on eash feature in a layer and export to PDF
for row in arcpy.da.SearchCursor(lyr, ['SHAPE@', 'NAME']):
    mf.camera.setExtent(row[0].extent)
    mf.camera.scale = mf.camera.scale * 1.1 #add a slight buffer
    mf.exportToPDF(os.path.join(r'C:\Projects\GreatLakes', f'{row[1]}.pdf'))
MapFrame example 2

The following script imports an MXD and 3DD document into a blank project. After referencing the appropriate elements, it changes each of the 2D inset maps to 3D scenes and applies the appropriate bookmarks to each map frame. Finally, the entire layout is exported to PDF.

import arcpy
p = arcpy.mp.ArcGISProject(r'C:\Projects\Blank.aprx')

#Import documents into project
p.importDocument(r'C:\Projects\YosemiteNP\Documents\Yosemite.mxd')
p.importDocument(r'C:\Projects\YosemiteNP\Documents\Yosemite_3DViews.3dd')

#Reference maps
scene = p.listMaps('Globe layers')[0]

#Reference Layout and map frames
lyt = p.listLayouts()[0]
mainMF = lyt.listElements('MapFrame_Element', 'Yosemite National Park*')[0]
inset1MF = lyt.listElements('MapFrame_Element', 'Inset1*')[0]
inset2MF = lyt.listElements('MapFrame_Element', 'Inset2*')[0]

#Convert imported 2D insets into 3D views and zoom to bookmarks
mainMF.zoomToBookmark(mainMF.map.listBookmarks('Yosemite Valley')[0])

inset1MF.map = scene
inset1MF.zoomToBookmark(inset1MF.map.listBookmarks('Yosemite Yalley (looking East)')[0])

inset2MF.map = scene
inset2MF.zoomToBookmark(inset2MF.map.listBookmarks('Yosemite Valley (looking West)')[0])

#Export the resulting imported layout and changes to PDF
lyt.exportToPDF(r'C:\Projects\YosemiteNP\Example2_Export.pdf')
MapFrame example 3

The following script demonstrates how to create a map frame using a Polygon geometry and a Point geometry.

p = arcpy.mp.ArcGISProject("CURRENT")

#Create a new map, layout
m = p.createMap('New Map', 'MAP')
lyt = p.createLayout(8.5, 11, 'INCH', 'New Layout')
lyt.openView()

#Create a new map frame using a polygon geometry
envCoordList = [[0.5, 5.75], [0.5, 10.5], [8, 10.5], [8, 5.75], [0.5, 5.75]]
envArray = arcpy.Array([arcpy.Point(*coords) for coords in envCoordList])
mf1 = lyt.createMapFrame(arcpy.Polygon(envArray), m, 'New MF - Poly')

#Create a new bookmark set to the map frame's default extent
bkmk = mf1.createBookmark('Default Extent', "The map's default extent")
bkmk.updateThumbnail()

#Create a new map frame using a point geometry
mf2 = lyt.createMapFrame(arcpy.Point(0.5,0.5), m, 'New MF - Point')
mf2.elementWidth = 7.5
mf2.elementHeight = 4.75
MapFrame example 4

The following script demonstrates how to use Python CIM Access to modify the border symbology of each map frame in a layout.

p = arcpy.mp.ArcGISProject('CURRENT')
lyt = p.listLayouts('Layout')[0]
lyt_cim = lyt.getDefinition('V3')
for elm in lyt_cim.elements:
    if type(elm).__name__ == 'CIMMapFrame':
        if elm.graphicFrame.borderSymbol.symbol.symbolLayers:
            sym = elm.graphicFrame.borderSymbol.symbol.symbolLayers[0]
            sym.width = 5
            sym.color.values = [255, 0, 0, 100]
        else:
            print(elm.name + ' has NO symbol layers')            
lyt.setDefinition(lyt_cim)