How to Send an Email with Embedded Image in Power Automate

In this tutorial video, Jonathon Silva demonstrates step-by-step how to embed an image within an email using Microsoft Power Automate. The video is designed for users looking to enhance their automated workflows by including visual elements in their messages.

Starting the Flow

Jonathon begins by explaining the initial step: setting up a trigger for the flow. For demonstration purposes, he uses a manual trigger with an instant cloud flow. However, he notes that this process can be integrated into larger automated workflows, scheduled tasks, or other cloudflows.

Accessing the Image

The first key step is to access the image you want to embed. Jonathon suggests storing the image in either OneDrive or SharePoint for ease of use. He demonstrates using OneDrive to retrieve the file content. The "Get file content" action is applied, which works similarly in SharePoint by specifying the file path.

Converting the Image to a String

Once the image content is retrieved, the next step is to convert it into a string format suitable for embedding. Jonathon explains how to use the "Compose" action and applies a data URI expression to transform the image into a string that Power Automate can process.

Creating a Variable for the Image

Jonathon sets up a variable to store the converted string. This allows easier manipulation and passing of the image content into the email body. He names the variable appropriately to reflect the content, ensuring clarity in the workflow.

Formatting the HTML for Email

The next critical step is building the HTML required to embed the image:

• Jonathon uses the concat function to construct the HTML image tag.
• He demonstrates placing the dynamic content output from the previous "Compose" step into the src attribute.
• He also adds an alt attribute for accessibility and formatting purposes.
• The resulting HTML string is then stored in the previously created variable.

Sending the Email

With the HTML ready, Jonathon moves to the final step: sending the email using the "Send an email" action in Outlook for Office 365. He inputs a test recipient, sets a subject line (“How does our new logo look?”), and includes some basic text in the body. The HTML variable containing the embedded image is passed into the email body.

Testing and Final Adjustments

Jonathon emphasizes testing the flow to ensure the email displays correctly. Once executed successfully, the email shows the embedded image as intended. He also mentions that further formatting can be applied to the HTML if needed, such as resizing the image or adjusting its placement within the email.

Key Takeaways

• Images must first be accessible via OneDrive or SharePoint.
• Use the "Get file content" action to retrieve the image data.
• Convert the image into a string format using the "Compose" action with a data URI expression.
• Store the formatted HTML in a variable for easy insertion into the email body.
• Send the email through Outlook 365 with the HTML variable embedded.
• Always test your flow to confirm correct display and formatting.

By following Jonathon Silva’s clear instructions, users can quickly and efficiently embed images in emails sent through Power Automate, adding a professional and visual element to automated communications. This workflow is particularly useful for companies like Pragmatic Works that rely on automated processes for internal and client communications.

Don't forget to check out the Pragmatic Works' on-demand learning platform for more insightful content and training sessions on Power Automate and other Microsoft applications. Be sure to subscribe to the Pragmatic Works YouTube channel to stay up-to-date on the latest tips and tricks.