How to Optimize Images Using the Image Optimization Module
Optimizing images is crucial for enhancing your website's performance, improving SEO rankings, and delivering an exceptional user experience. The “Image Optimization” module simplifies this process, allowing you to reduce image sizes by 40-60% while maintaining original quality. Follow this detailed guide to learn how to optimize images on your PrestaShop store.
Steps to optimize images
Step 1: From the module configuration page, navigate to the “Optimize images” tab.
Step 2: Choose the types of images you want to optimize: product images, category images, supplier images, manufacturer images, logos, banners, home sliders, etc.
Step 3: Select one of the four available image optimization methods: Google WebP, TinyPNG, reSmush, or PHP script.
Step 4: Set up the desired image quality. The higher the quality, the longer the loading time. A 50% quality setting is recommended.
Step 5: Click on the “Optimize existing images” button to begin the optimization process.
Note: If an image cannot be further optimized without compromising quality, its file size will remain unchanged. This ensures maximum optimization while preserving visual integrity.
Image optimization methods
The “Image Optimization” module offers four powerful image optimization methods to help you achieve the best results for your online store. Each method uses different compression algorithms and settings to suit various preferences and requirements. Here’s a detailed look at each method:
| Method | Overview | Benefits | Usecase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google WebP | - Google WebP is a modern image format that provides superior compression and quality compared to older formats like JPEG and PNG. - It uses both lossy and lossless compression techniques to reduce image sizes significantly while maintaining high visual quality. | - Reduces image sizes by up to 50% without noticeable loss in quality. - Improves page load times, which is crucial for user experience and SEO. - Supported by most modern browsers. | Ideal for websites that require high-quality images with minimal file sizes. |
| TinyPNG | - TinyPNG uses smart lossy compression techniques to reduce the file size of your PNG and JPEG files. - It selectively decreases the number of colors in the image, requiring fewer bytes to store the data. | - Reduces file sizes significantly while preserving image transparency and quality. - Offers a paid service that provides even higher compression rates and better quality retention. | Best suited for sites with a large number of PNG images, especially those needing to maintain transparency. |
| reSmush | - reSmush is a free image optimization service that uses a variety of algorithms to compress images. - It supports various image formats, including JPEG, PNG, and GIF. | - Provides decent compression rates without any cost. - Easy to use with simple integration into PrestaShop. | Ideal for smaller online stores looking for cost-effective image optimization solutions. |
| PHP Script | - The PHP script optimization method uses server-side scripts to compress images. - It offers a customizable approach to image optimization, allowing you to adjust the compression settings as needed. | - Does not rely on external services, ensuring full control over the optimization process. - Can be tailored to meet specific requirements and preferences. | Suitable for developers and store owners who prefer an in-house solution for image optimization. |
Selecting the best image optimization method depends on your specific needs and resources. For instance:
- Google WebP and TinyPNG are excellent choices for high-quality image compression with minimal size.
- reSmush offers a free and straightforward option for basic compression needs.
- PHP Script provides full control and customization for those comfortable with server-side management.
Types of images to optimize
This feature supports the optimization of various image types, including product images, category images, logos, banners, slider images, and more. Both existing and future images can be optimized.
The module can optimize images for the following PrestaShop modules: the default home-slider, default banner, and the BLOG module.
Optimizing images on CMS pages and other modules
To optimize images on CMS pages or other modules/folders:
- Navigate to the “Browse images” tab on the module configuration page.
- Select your preferred image optimization method.
- Browse and select the folder containing the images.
- Click to optimize the selected images.
- Download optimized images or restore them to their original quality if needed.
Optimizing user-uploaded images
Users can optimize their uploaded images directly on the server:
- Navigate to the “Upload to optimize” tab on the module configuration page.
- Select your preferred image optimization method.
- Upload the images you wish to optimize.
- Download the optimized images or delete them from the server to save storage.
By following these steps, you can ensure that all images on your PrestaShop store are optimized for improved performance, faster loading times, and a better user experience.