Format Images for Web Display: Essential Guide

Format Images for Web Display: Essential Guide

By Michael Chen

January 1, 2025 at 02:13 AM

Images must be formatted correctly to display well on websites across all devices. Here's how to optimize your images for web display:

Key Image Requirements:

  • Maximum file size: 20MB (500KB recommended for fast loading)
  • Minimum width: 1500px (2500px optimal)
  • Supported formats: JPG, PNG, GIF
  • Maximum resolution: 120 megapixels
  • Color mode: RGB

Best Practices:

  1. Upload high-quality images larger than your maximum display size
  2. Keep total page size under 5MB for faster loading
  3. Use consistent aspect ratios in galleries
  4. Save images with text as PNG to maintain sharpness
  5. Add alt text for accessibility and SEO

Image Resizing: Squarespace automatically creates 7 versions of each image:

  • 100px width
  • 300px width
  • 500px width
  • 750px width
  • 1000px width
  • 1500px width
  • 2500px width

Transparent Backgrounds:

  • Use PNG format for transparency
  • Create using third-party software
  • Note: Built-in editor converts to JPG

Common Issues & Solutions:

  1. Blurry Images

    • Ensure width is over 1500px
    • Check resolution settings
  2. Cropping Problems

    • Match image aspect ratio to container
    • Use focal point adjustment
    • Consider mobile display requirements
  3. Color Distortion

    • Verify correct color profile (RGB)
    • Check file format compatibility

Text Overlay Tips:

  • Add text as overlay rather than embedding in image
  • Makes content searchable
  • Ensures visibility on mobile devices
  • Preserves text quality across screen sizes

Remember to keep original files on your computer as backup and preview your site on different devices to ensure optimal display across all screen sizes.

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