You can get a cover image on WordPress using several methods, primarily through the Cover Block or by setting a Featured Image. Here's a breakdown of the approaches:
Using the Cover Block
The Cover Block allows you to add an image or video with overlaying text to create a visually appealing header or section within your WordPress page or post.
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Add the Cover Block: Within the WordPress editor, click the "+" icon to add a new block. Search for "Cover" and select the Cover Block.
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Upload or Select Media:
- Upload: Click the "Upload" button to upload a new image or video (if your plan supports video uploads) from your computer.
- Media Library: Click the "Media Library" button to choose an existing image or video from your WordPress Media Library.
- Use Featured Image: Some themes allow you to pull in the featured image of your page or post to use as the cover image.
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Add Text: Once the image or video is added, you can add text overlaying the media. Simply click within the block where it says "Write title…" and enter your desired text. You can format this text using the block editor's options.
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Customize: The Cover Block offers customization options such as:
- Overlay Color: Adjust the color and opacity of the overlay to improve text readability.
- Focal Point Picker: Specify which part of the image is most important, ensuring it's visible on different screen sizes.
- Minimum Height: Set a minimum height for the block.
- Fixed Background: Set the background to fixed to give a parallax effect.
- Repeat Background: Set the background to repeat.
- Cover Block Dimensions: You can adjust the dimensions of the cover block to your liking by adjusting the width and height percentages.
Using a Featured Image
The Featured Image is another method to display an image, often at the top of a post or page, depending on your WordPress theme. While not technically a "Cover Image" in the block editor sense, it serves a similar purpose.
- Locate the Featured Image Box: In the WordPress editor, look for the "Featured Image" box in the sidebar (usually on the right side of the screen). If you don't see it, click the "Settings" icon (gear icon) in the top right corner to open the settings panel, then select the "Post" or "Page" tab. Scroll down to find the "Featured Image" option.
- Set the Featured Image: Click "Set featured image" and either upload a new image or select one from your Media Library.
- Update/Publish: Click the "Update" (for existing posts/pages) or "Publish" (for new posts/pages) button to save your changes.
Important Considerations:
- Theme Compatibility: How Featured Images are displayed, and whether they function as cover images, depends entirely on your chosen WordPress theme. Some themes might display the Featured Image prominently, while others might not show it at all.
- Image Size: Optimize your images for web use to ensure fast loading times. Choose appropriate dimensions and file sizes.
By utilizing the Cover Block and the Featured Image functionality, you can effectively add cover images to your WordPress website, enhancing its visual appeal and user experience.
