How to upload images in WordPress?

How to upload images in WordPress (all real methods)

Uploading images in WordPress sounds basic, but there are actually a few different ways to do it. And depending on what you’re working on, one way makes more sense than the others. I’ll walk you through all the normal methods, step by step, without overcomplicating it.

Method 1: Upload images while editing a page or post (most common)

This is what you’ll use 90% of the time.

Steps:

1. Log into WordPress

2. Open a page or post

3. Click where you want the image

4. Click the + block icon

5. Choose Image

6. Click Upload

7. Select the image from your computer

Once it’s in, you can resize it, align it, and add alt text from the right-hand panel.

Cost:
€0

This method automatically adds the image to your Media Library as well.

Method 2: Upload images via Media Library (good for organising)

This is handy if you want to upload a batch of images first.

Steps:

1. Go to Media → Library

2. Click Add New

3. Drag and drop images or click Select Files

4. Wait for upload to finish

After that, you can insert these images into any page or post later.

Cost:
€0

Good if you’re uploading lots of images at once.

Method 3: Drag and drop directly into the editor

This one surprises people.

Steps:

1. Open a page or post

2. Drag an image from your computer

3. Drop it into the content area

WordPress automatically creates an image block and uploads it.

Cost:
€0

Fast and satisfying when it works.

Method 4: Upload images using the Gallery block

If you want multiple images together.

Steps:

1. Open a page or post

2. Click +

3. Choose Gallery

4. Upload multiple images or select existing ones

5. Arrange them

6. Insert

Cost:
€0

Great for portfolios, before-and-after photos, or event pictures.

Method 5: Upload images via FTP (for large or bulk uploads)

This is for bigger jobs or slow hosting.

Steps:

1. Connect to your site via FTP

2. Go to /wp-content/uploads/

3. Upload images into the correct year/month folder

4. Log into WordPress

5. Use a media import option if needed

Important:
Images uploaded via FTP won’t always show in Media Library unless you import them.

Cost:
€0

This method is more technical and not needed for everyday use.

Method 6: Upload images via page builders (Elementor, etc.)

If you’re using a page builder, it has its own flow.

Steps:

1. Open the page in the builder

2. Add an image widget

3. Upload or select an image

4. Insert

Under the hood, WordPress still handles the upload.

Cost:
€0 (builder itself may be paid)

Common issues people run into

Image upload fails
Usually hosting upload limits. Ask support to increase it.

Images look blurry
You uploaded something too small and stretched it.

Images look huge
You’re using full-size images where you shouldn’t.

Wrong orientation
Fix it before upload. WordPress rotation is hit or miss.

What actually works best

Resize images before uploading
Upload through the editor
Add alt text
Don’t upload massive files “just in case”

Uploading images in WordPress is easy once you stop overthinking it. Pick the method that fits the job, upload clean images, and move on. Most problems start when people try to be clever instead of simple.