How to Compress Images for Your Website (Step-by-Step Guide)

Published by ImageCompressor | Updated 2025

Why Compress Images?

Uncompressed images are one of the biggest causes of slow-loading websites. Compressing your images can dramatically reduce file sizes, improve SEO, increase user satisfaction, and boost conversion rates.

Step 1: Choose the Right Format

• Use JPEG: for photographs and high-resolution images
• Use PNG: for logos, icons, and transparent graphics
• Use WebP or AVIF: for modern performance

Step 2: Resize Images Before Upload

Don't upload a 3000px-wide image if you only need it to display at 800px. Resize first using tools like Photoshop, GIMP, or browser tools like Squoosh.

Step 3: Use Online Compression Tools

Free tools to reduce image size while maintaining quality:

• TinyPNG
• Squoosh
• ImageCompressor (this site)

Step 4: Automate Compression for Your CMS

Popular plugins:

• WordPress: Smush, EWWW Image Optimizer, ShortPixel
• Shopify: Crush.pics, TinyIMG
• Joomla/Drupal: ImageRecycle, JCH Optimize

Step 5: Use Lazy Loading

Only load images when they're visible on the screen. Add loading="lazy" to your HTML or use JavaScript-based lazy loaders.

Step 6: Test Website Performance

• Google PageSpeed Insights
• GTmetrix
• Lighthouse Reports

Bonus: Automate with Build Tools

If you're a developer, integrate image compression into your workflow using tools like:

• imagemin + Webpack
• gulp-image
• jpegoptim and optipng CLI tools

Conclusion

By following these steps, you’ll reduce image size, load pages faster, and offer a better experience for your users. Use automation where possible and test your performance regularly. Try ImageCompressor to get started instantly.

Next: Automate Image Optimization in Your Dev Workflow →