Using the WordPress Media Library

Uploading Images

Go to Media → Add New to upload images, or add them directly while editing a post using the Image block. WordPress accepts JPG, PNG, GIF, and WebP formats. Before uploading, resize your images to the maximum width your theme displays (typically 1200px) and compress them using a free tool like TinyPNG. Large, unoptimised images are the number one cause of slow-loading blogs.

Image SEO: Alt Text and File Names

Every image needs descriptive alt text — this tells search engines what the image shows and improves accessibility for visually impaired visitors using screen readers. Write natural descriptions: 'Woman typing on laptop at coffee shop' is better than 'blog-image-2024.jpg'. Also rename your files before uploading — 'wordpress-dashboard-overview.jpg' is far better for SEO than 'IMG_4521.jpg'.

Organising Your Media Library

WordPress doesn't have built-in folders, but you can filter by date and search by filename. Install a plugin like FileBird or MediaLibrary Plus for folder organisation if your library grows large. Regularly delete unused images to keep your library manageable and your hosting storage efficient. Use the 'Unattached' filter to find orphaned images that aren't used in any post or page.