Introduction
The WordPress Media Library stores images, documents, videos and other files used throughout your website.
Once uploaded, media files can be used on:
- Pages
- Posts
- Product pages
- Galleries
- Widgets
This guide explains how to upload images to the WordPress Media Library.
Step 1 – Log Into WordPress
Open your browser and visit: https://yourdomain.co.za/wp-admin
(Replace yourdomain.co.za with your own domain name.)
Enter your WordPress username and password.
Click: Log In
Step 2 – Open the Media Library
From the WordPress Dashboard
Click: Media
Then click: Library
The Media Library will display all files currently uploaded to your website.
Step 3 – Upload New Images
From the Media Library
Click: Add Media File
You can either:
- Drag and drop files into the upload area
- Click: Select Files
Then choose the images from your computer.
WordPress will automatically upload the selected files.
Step 4 – View Uploaded Images
Once uploaded, the images will appear in the Media Library.
Click on any image to view additional information.
Step 5 – Edit Image Details
Click on an image within the Media Library.
You can update:
- Title
- Caption
- Alternative Text (Alt Text)
- Description
Understanding Alt Text
Alt Text helps describe an image to:
- Search engines
- Screen readers
- Visitors if the image cannot load
Locate: Alternative Text
Example: HostworX customer dashboard showing hosting account statistics
Adding meaningful Alt Text can improve accessibility and SEO.
Copying an Image URL
Click on an image within the Media Library.
Locate: File URL
You can use this URL when linking directly to the image.
Deleting Images
To remove an image:
Click on the image you wish to remove.
Click: Delete Permanently
Deleted images cannot normally be recovered unless a backup is available.
Recommended Image Formats
For best results use:
- JPG or JPEG for photographs
- PNG for logos and graphics requiring transparency
- WebP for modern, optimized images
WebP images generally provide smaller file sizes and faster website loading times.
Recommended Image Sizes
Large images can slow down your website.
Before uploading:
- Resize images where possible.
- Compress images if required.
- Use appropriately sized images for their intended purpose.
Common Upload Problems
File Too Large
If an upload fails, the image may exceed your website's upload limit.
Try reducing the image size or file size before uploading.
Unsupported File Type
WordPress only supports specific file formats.
Ensure the image is saved as:
- JPG
- JPEG
- PNG
- GIF
- WebP
Upload Fails
Verify:
- Your hosting account has available disk space.
- Your internet connection is stable.
- The image file is not corrupted.
Conclusion
The WordPress Media Library provides a central location for managing images and other media files used throughout your website.
Keeping images optimized and organized can improve both website performance and visitor experience.
