Images and media files are often the largest part of a webpage.
Optimizing them properly can significantly improve page loading speed.
Why Image Optimization Matters
Large images slow down websites and increase data usage.
Optimized images load faster and improve user experience.
Choose the Right Image Format
Different formats serve different purposes:
- JPEG for photos
- PNG for transparent images
- SVG for icons and logos
Always include meaningful alt text to support accessibility and SEO.
Use Proper Image Dimensions
Avoid using very large images and resizing them only with CSS.
Serve images close to the size they are displayed.
Specifying width and height helps browsers reserve space and reduce layout shifts.
Lazy Loading Images
Lazy loading delays loading images until they are needed.
This improves initial page load time, especially on long pages.
Optimizing Videos and Media
Use external platforms or streaming services when possible.
Avoid hosting very large video files directly on your server.
Using Thumbnails for Videos
Load a small image first and play the video only when the user clicks.
This approach saves bandwidth and improves performance.
Why Media Optimization Matters for Jobs
Performance optimization is a professional requirement.
Employers expect developers to handle images and media efficiently.
Practice Task
Take a webpage with many images and:
- Reduce image sizes
- Add lazy loading
- Add proper alt text
What You Will Learn Next
In the next lesson, you will learn how to write clean and efficient HTML structure.