9 Best Ways to Compress Images in Bulk [+ Resize and Optimize in Bulk]
The use of numerous images requires image compression to save space. However, compressing one image at a time would take months to be optimized and compressed correctly.
Likewise, you will need specific tools and techniques to compress images in bulk.
Compressing images is one way of optimizing them. It reduces their size without significant loss of quality.
Small, compressed images…
- Occupy less storage space
- Reduce bandwidth usage
- Contribute to faster loading times, improving user experience
- Faster transmission over networks
When dealing with a large volume of images, you need smart hacks for faster and streamlined compression.
Bulk image compression involves reducing the file sizes of many images simultaneously. It enables you to automatically compress images in large quantities while maintaining acceptable visual quality.
This article will show you the best and most practical ways to quickly and efficiently compress images in bulk.
Quick Takeaways
- Compressing numerous images individually can be time-consuming, making bulk image compression a practical solution.
- Bulk compression improves storage, bandwidth usage, and site performance.
- Choosing the right image format (e.g., WebP, JPEG, or PNG) and resizing images beforehand significantly improves compression efficiency.
- WordPress plugins like ShortPixel simplify image optimization for websites.
9 Best Ways to Batch Compress Images
Due to the large number of images involved, bulk image compression requires more attention than standard image compression.
You’ll have to start over if you make a mistake while compressing images in bulk. Thus, you need to be careful while compressing images in bulk.
Here are some of the best ways to compress image files in bulk:
1. Convert Images to the Appropriate Format
Before you compress images in bulk, convert them to an appropriate file format. The choice of format directly impacts the image file size, image quality, and compatibility with different platforms.
When selecting the format to convert to, consider the image’s transparency, color depth, and quality requirements. The most common formats for digital images include;
- JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group): JPEG (also JPG) is a lossy compression format. Its quality reduces with the file size because it discards some image data to achieve compression. JPEG is the best choice for web images and photographs with complex color gradients. If the images you’re compressing have transparency or sharp edges, JPEG is not the best choice as it doesn’t support these features.
- GIF (Graphics Interface Formats): GIF is a lossless format that supports both static and animated images. If you’ve seen short animations online, they were most likely GIFs. The format also supports transparency but has a limited color palette.
- PNG (Portable Network Graphics): Think of PNG as an improvement of GIF. It is a lossless format that supports transparency and can display millions of colors. PNG is the best choice for images with detailed graphics and sharp contrasts like graphics and logos.
- WebP: This modern image format supports lossy and lossless compression without compromising image quality. It supports transparency and animations, resulting in smaller image sizes than JPEG and PNG.
The ideal choice of format depends on the type of images you’re compressing, the level of quality you desire, and how you intend to use them.
WebP combines all the advantages of the other formats in one format. This is why it’s gaining widespread adoption in web design, digital advertising, and other online uses that require image optimization.
2. Resize Images
Resizing involves reducing image dimensions. It results in a proportional reduction in the number of pixels and, consequently, the file size.
Determine the specific dimensions you want based on the type of images you’re resizing. For example, website images like product and background images have specific optimal dimensions.
Batch resize images with:
Another way to adjust image size is by cropping, which removes parts of the original image and discards pixels.
Cropping can help you focus on the most important areas, while resizing changes the overall dimensions. Instead of dragging the corners to resize, cropping can maintain the image’s proportions and prevent distortion.
Resizing the image before compression reduces its file size considerably. Compression then further reduces the size, helping you achieve the desired file size without sacrificing too much quality.
3. Maintain the Original Aspect Ratio
An image’s aspect ratio is the ratio of its width to height. It determines how an image will appear visually in different designs and is expressed as 1:1, 3:2, 16:9, etc.
When you resize images without maintaining the aspect ratio, they become distorted and appear stretched or squeezed. You don’t want this, as it causes visual and layout inconsistencies.
Most compression tools automatically maintain the aspect ratios when resizing images. If the one you’re using does not, consider migrating to one that prioritizes aspect ratio preservation. Alternatively, adjust the settings manually.
4. Use Compression Tools
Look for a compression tool with batch-processing capabilities to batch compress online. Popular tools like Adobe Photoshop and GIMP have user-friendly interfaces and bulk compression options.
Others, like ShortPixel Online Image Compressor and TinyPNG, are convenient, allowing you to compress images without installing software.
Compress photos online for free!
Optimize images online effortlessly using the best bulk image compressor.
Compression tools often have adjustable settings, allowing you to control image quality. Depending on the quality you’re looking for, you can also choose between lossy and lossless compression.
Look for these features in an online compression tool to bulk compress images.
- Advanced compression algorithms for significant file size reduction without compromising quality
- A user-friendly interface
- Batch processing capabilities to compress multiple images simultaneously
- Support for various image file formats like JPEG, PNG, and GIF
- Adjustable compression settings
- Preservation of metadata if it’s important
- Backup creation
- Preview feature
Regardless of the tool used, the goal is to balance between reducing the file size and maintaining an acceptable visual quality.
5. Adjust Compression Levels
This is the degree of compression you apply to an image. It determines the balance between reducing the file size and maintaining the image’s visual quality.
Higher compression levels result in smaller file sizes but reduced image quality. Conversely, lower levels preserve image quality but result in larger file sizes.
Compression tools allow you to adjust compression levels, usually expressed as a percentage or numbered scale. The right balance depends on the specific requirements of your project.
For instance, fast loading times are the goal for web and digital applications. Thus, slightly higher compression levels are required, emphasizing smaller file sizes.
Professional photography, on the other hand, prioritizes image quality and a lower compression level is preferable.
6. Choose Between Lossy and Lossless Compression
Before you compress image file in bulk, decide what image data to discard and what to preserve.
Lossy compression significantly reduces file size (up to 90% with Shortpixel) by eliminating image metadata.
The image quality is reduced but often invisible to the eye. This is acceptable where a minor quality loss is not a major issue, like in web images. JPEG employs lossy compression.
Lossless compression, characteristic of formats like GIF and PNG, retains all image data without loss in quality. This is important if your work requires preserving every detail, like in graphic design or professional photography.
Ultimately, your choice will depend on the importance of visual quality and how you intend to use the images. Your compression method should align with your project’s goals and requirements and deliver the expected user experience.
7. Use High-Resolution Images
When compressing images in bulk, start with images of higher resolution than you need in the final product. Starting with a higher resolution allows more room for compression without sacrificing perceptible visual quality.
This technique is particularly beneficial when dealing with large batches of images. For example, web development, which requires maintaining clarity and smaller file sizes.
It caters to specific uses, such as responsive web design, which requires different image sizes for various devices.
However, be careful and strike the right balance. Excessively high-resolution images can still contribute to slow loading times and increased bandwidth usage.
8. Create a Backup Before Compressing
Before you compress images in bulk, create a backup for the original images, to avoid any potential data loss and unforeseen issues.
A backup is especially important when you compress image in bulk, as it ensures you can easily restore the originals if the compression doesn’t turn out as expected. This way, you won’t risk losing any of your original image quality.
For example, if the compression was too aggressive and resulted in noticeable quality loss.
For WordPress users, plugins like ShortPixel Image Optimizer back original images up with a feature that is enabled by default.
If the tool you’re using doesn’t offer this option, make sure to create a manual backup.
Save the new files in a separate location to avoid overwriting anything, giving you peace of mind knowing your original image quality is safe and intact.
9. Use WordPress Image Optimization Plugins
Compress images in bulk online using WordPress image optimization plugins.
Plugins like ShortPixel can bulk compress photo files from your media library with just one click. You can also set compression levels and automatically compress images upon upload.
Other popular WordPress plugins that can bulk optimize images are Imagify, EWWW Optimizer, and Smush.
Most of these plugins come with other image optimization features like resizing, support for next-gen files like WebP and AVIF, the option to bulk resize images, and so on, contributing to improved page loading times.
Using them is easy and efficient. Their user-friendly interfaces make them accessible even to people without technical knowledge.
Optimized images will give your site optimal loading speeds and a positive user experience.
How To Compress Images in Bulk with Shorpixel
When dealing with a large number of images, it makes sense to compress them in bulk. You reduce their file sizes and make dealing with extensive image collections efficient.
But you need a practical strategy to compress images in bulk online.
You will achieve optimal compression by converting them to the appropriate formats, resizing before compressing, maintaining the aspect ratio, and using high-resolution images.
Luckily, you can compress images in bulk using the ShortPixel Image Compressor.
Additionally, it’ll optimize and compress your images automatically.
Drop up to 50 image files or enter your URL and see what ShortPixel can do for your website.
FAQs
Which bulk image compressor without losing quality?
For bulk image compression without quality loss, go with ShortPixel. It’s reliable, handles batch processing well, and maintains excellent image quality. Plus, it supports different compression types to fit your needs.
Which image format is good for compressing large complex images?
For large, complex images, JPEG is usually the best. It offers great compression while keeping quality reasonable. If you want even better results, try WebP or AVIF – modern formats that often deliver smaller file sizes with comparable or better quality.
How to bulk optimize images?
To bulk optimize images, use a tool like ShortPixel. Upload all your images to the platform or plugin, select your preferred compression level, and let it process them in one go.
Does compressing images affect quality?
Compressing images can affect quality, but it depends on the compression type. Lossy compression reduces file size by removing some data, which might lower quality. Lossless compression, like what ShortPixel offers, keeps the original quality intact while reducing size. It’s all about finding the right balance!
Is it possible to compress without losing quality?
Yes, it’s definitely possible to compress images without losing quality. This is called lossless compression. Tools like ShortPixel offer this option, which reduces file size without affecting the visual quality of the image.
