Beyond Atlas: Automating Map Production with PyQGIS

Map production is still often a manual step at the end of a GIS analysis workflow. QGIS Atlas and expressions provide powerful tools to automate the printing process. However, there are limits to this approach, for instance when more advanced, data-driven customization is required. This is where we can benefit from using Python and the PyQGIS API to automate printing tasks in QGIS.

We will start with a brief recap of QGIS printing layouts and the Atlas feature. Then, we will explore how to use PyQGIS and QGIS print layout templates to automate the printing process. Using structured data (e.g. from a database or a CSV file), we can configure layouts and run batch printing jobs with a single script.

The session includes a live demo in the QGIS Python console, along with an outline of how to write code that loads different print templates, accesses layout items via their IDs, dynamically modifies content, configures print jobs, and exports maps.

The talk concludes with a discussion of when a PyQGIS based printing approach is preferable to the Atlas feature, and how it can be integrated into a QGIS workflow.

This hands-on workshop introduces how map production can be automated using Python/PyQGIS scripts together with QGIS print layouts. It builds on the preceding talk and focuses on practical implementation.

We start with a short introduction to print layout templates and their main elements, such as maps, legends, text labels, images, and scale bars, as well as a brief introduction to PyQGIS.

In the practical part, participants learn how to prepare a layout for automation by assigning item IDs to its elements. We will then write PyQGIS code to control and modify the print layout. Using PyQGIS, layout elements are accessed via their IDs and dynamically updated—for example by changing text, adjusting map settings, modifying legends, or inserting images. As a first step, a single layout is exported as a PDF.

A prepared example project is then introduced, containing input data (CSV), a GeoPackage, and print layout templates. Participants will extend the provided script step by step and finally run a batch export.

The focus of the workshop is on the interaction between Python/PyQGIS code and QGIS print layouts. To support this, participants work with prepared PyQGIS scripts which are extended.

Participants should have basic knowledge of QGIS and Python. Prior experience with the QGIS Python API is helpful but not required.