From r/ObsidianMD 📅 • 📊 9 upvotes • ⭐ 8/10 • 🚀 high
*Analysis generated: Nov 18, 2025*
🔗 Source: View on Reddit
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Summary
The user figured out a way to compile and display embedded images (Excalidraw drawings and PNGs) from their notes at the beginning, using a ‘bases’ code block. This helps quickly identify and view images within lengthy notes.
Key Insights
1. Demonstrates how to create a visual summary of images within notes.
2. Provides a concrete example of using Dataview-like queries to filter and display content based on file types and folder locations.
3. Highlights the potential for improving note navigation and information retrieval using dynamic views.
Enhancement Suggestions
1. Create a Reusable Template/Snippet: Turn the “bases” code block into a reusable Obsidian template or snippet. This allows users to quickly insert and adapt the code block without having to rewrite it each time, significantly saving time and reducing the chance of errors. This focuses on focused workflows and improves operational efficiency.
2. Automate Image Captioning with Dataview/Templater: Expand the code block to automatically extract image captions (if present) using Dataview or Templater. This enhances the “bases” code block to display not only the image but also a brief description, improving information retrieval and turning it into a second-brain feature by adding context to the visual summary.
3. Develop a Dynamic Dashboard for Visual Overviews: Suggest building a dedicated dashboard note that uses Dataview to create visual overviews across multiple notes or folders. This takes the initial idea and scales it to a system-level solution, improving system generation and turning Obsidian into a more robust personal knowledge management system. Users could quickly scan a dashboard displaying key images from different projects or areas of knowledge.
Analysis
This post showcases a clever use of ‘bases’ (likely referring to the Dataview plugin or a similar query language) to improve visual note navigation. The provided code snippet offers a practical example for others to adapt.
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*Curated by AI for Paul’s Vault Members*