To upload an image to WordPress, drag the picture from your computer into the editor. You can also go to Media > Add New and pick the file. WordPress saves it in your media library, and you can use it again later.
Why images matter
Pictures show visitors what your site is about. They can also show the products and services you offer.
This tutorial shows how to add a picture from your computer. The same steps work for pages and for posts.
Upload from the editor
This is the fastest way when you are already writing.
Open your page or post
Go to Pages > All Pages or Posts > All Posts. Click the title you want to edit.
Place your cursor
Click in the text where you want the picture to go.
Add the image
Drag the picture from your desktop into the editor. Or click the plus icon, choose Image, then Upload and pick the file.
Wait for the upload
A progress bar shows while the file uploads. When it ends, the picture is selected, so you can adjust it.
Add alt text
In the settings panel, type a short description of the picture in the Alternative Text box.
Publish your change
Click Preview to check the page. Then click Update or Publish.
Upload from the media library
You can also upload files first and place them later. Go to Media > Add New Media File. Drag your files into the box, or click Select Files.
To reuse a picture you uploaded before, open Media > Library. In the editor, click the image block and choose Media Library. Pick the picture you want.
Get the file ready first
Big photos make pages slow. A phone photo can be several megabytes. Resize it to about 1200 pixels wide before you upload. That is plenty for most pages.
Give the file a short name that describes it, such as front-desk.jpg. Use JPG for photos and PNG for graphics with sharp edges.
Always write alt text. It helps visitors who use screen readers, and it helps search engines. To change a picture after it is on the page, read our guide to WordPress tutorials.
If the upload fails
If you see an error, the file may be too large or the wrong type. WordPress accepts JPG, PNG, GIF and WebP pictures. Try a smaller file first.
If it still fails, your host may set a low upload limit. On a Websnoogie web hosting plan, we can raise that limit for you.
Slow internet can also stop an upload. Wait a minute, then try again. If you upload many pictures at once, send them in smaller groups.
Stuck on an upload, or want us to handle your images? Call Websnoogie in Omaha at 402-813-4034 any day from 7 am to 10 pm.
Common questions
What image types can I upload to WordPress?
WordPress accepts JPG, PNG, GIF and WebP pictures by default. Use JPG for photos and PNG for graphics.
Where does WordPress keep my uploaded images?
They are saved in your media library. Go to Media > Library to see, reuse or delete them.
AboutRod and Tami Atwood
Rod and Tami Atwood and other Websnoogie contributors write the Websnoogie blog. Rod has built websites since 2004 and founded Websnoogie, LLC in Omaha in 2012. Tami is co-owner, content editor and billing expert. Call us at 402-813-4034 or write to staff@websnoogie.com.
