How to Create an Image Gallery in WordPress

An image gallery allows you to display multiple pictures in a grid or slideshow format, making your posts and pages more engaging. WordPress has a built-in gallery block, and you can also enhance it with plugins for advanced layouts. Here’s how to create and manage an image gallery step by step.

Method 1: Using the Built-In Gallery Block

Step 1: Open the Editor

1. Log in to your WordPress dashboard.
2. Go to Posts → Add New or edit an existing post/page.

Step 2: Insert a Gallery Block

1. Click the + icon to add a block.
2. Search for Gallery and select it.

Step 3: Add Images

• Click Upload to add new images from your computer.
• Or click Media Library to select existing images.
• You can choose multiple images at once.

Step 4: Customize the Gallery

• Rearrange images by dragging them into position.
• Use the block settings (on the right panel) to adjust:
• Number of columns
• Crop images to a uniform size
• Link options (to media file, attachment page, or none)

Step 5: Publish Your Post

Click Publish or Update to make your gallery live on your site.

Method 2: Creating an Image Gallery with Plugins

If you want more advanced layouts (masonry, sliders, lightbox effects), use a gallery plugin:

• NextGEN Gallery – powerful gallery manager with albums and lightboxes.
• Envira Gallery Lite – drag-and-drop builder for responsive galleries.
• Modula Image Gallery – customizable grid galleries with hover effects.

With these plugins, you can:

• Create dedicated galleries outside of posts/pages.
• Choose from multiple display styles (grid, masonry, slideshow).
• Add lightbox functionality for full-size previews.

Method 3: Add a Gallery in Widgets or Site Editor

1. Go to Appearance → Widgets (or Appearance → Editor for block themes).
2. Add a Gallery block to the sidebar, footer, or any widget area.
3. Select your images and customize as usual.

Best Practices for Image Galleries

• Optimize images: Compress files with plugins like Smush or ShortPixel to improve load speed.
• Use descriptive alt text: Helps with accessibility and SEO.
• Choose a consistent style: Keep image sizes and aspect ratios uniform for a clean look.

Summary

1. Use the built-in Gallery block to create a simple grid of images.
2. Enhance galleries with plugins for advanced layouts and lightboxes.
3. Insert galleries in posts, pages, sidebars, or footers as needed.
4. Always optimize images for faster loading and better SEO.

With just a few steps, you can create beautiful image galleries in WordPress that make your site more engaging and visually appealing.

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