==== Attaching Files or Photos ====

To attach a file or photo to a message, follow these steps:

  - Scroll to the Attachments section below the message box.
  - Click on the "Choose File" option.
  - Browse to select the desired file.  Select Open.
  - Choose Add Attachment.
  - Repeat steps for additional attachments.\\  {{:attach_file_1.png?700|}}
  - Note that photos attached to a message in this way will not show up when you preview the message (that's just the way the forum software works), but they will be there after it's posted.

** IMPORTANT! **  The maximum file size for attached photos is 2 MB. If your file is too large, you will get an error message when you try to attach it. Resize the photo using your favorite image-editing software and try again.

==== Insert Into Post ==== 
Rather than displaying an attachment at the end of the message, you can choose to insert the attachment into the message.

  - Follow the steps above to attach the file.
  - One the file is attached, use the "Insert Into Post" option to the right.\\  {{:attach_file_2.png?700|}}
  - A reference to the file will be inserted at the beginning of your message.  This may read something like "[attachment = 23]"\\  {{:attach_file_3.png?700|}}
  - You can cut and paste this code to locate it as desired in your message.\\  {{:attach_file_4.png?700|}}

__**PLEASE NOTE:**__ Embedding images **hosted on other sites** (aka hotlinking) is not allowed here. If you want to refer to an image that is located on another site, please [[inserting_a_link_into_a_message|post a link to the image]], rather than using the "Insert an image" button on the editing toolbar to embed it in your message.

==== Removing Attachments ====
  - If you select the wrong attachment, or change your mind about attaching the file, scroll to the Attachments section and select "Remove Attachment"\\  {{:attach_file_7.png?700|}}
  - A pop-up window will appear asking "Are you sure you want to remove the selected attachment from this post?"  Select No to complete removal of the attachment.\\  {{:attach_file_8.png?500|}}