Resolving image upload issues
Another recurring question occasionally received by WebSpawner Customer Service is:
Why won’t my images upload into the Image Gallery?
There are several possible causes for image upload issues… today we discuss the most common ones, along with suggestions to resolve them.
Incompatible file format
If your image is not saved in a compatible image file format, you must save a copy on your computer in one of the three compatible file formats - .jpg, .gif, or .png - and then upload the resulting compatible image file. Note that simply changing the name of an image to end in “.jpg” or “.gif” or “.png” is not sufficient and doesn’t change the file format; it must be saved in one of the three formats using an image editing program (see below for more info on available image editors).
Excessive image size
An image which has an excessively large file size due to very high resolution or large physical dimensions may cause your web browser (Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari or other) to “time out” during the image upload process. Resize your image using an image editing program to reduce it to a more appropriate size (we suggest no more than 600 x 800 pixels) and save a copy in one of the three compatible file formats for uploading (don’t overwrite the original on your computer by accident). Use Optimization within your image editing program to reduce the resulting image file size while retaining acceptable image quality; smaller files take less time for you to upload and load more quickly for viewers.
File naming issues
Image file names that are excessively long (30 characters or more) or that contain special characters or blank spaces instead of just numbers and letters may pose problems… try removing blank spaces and characters and/or shortening file names before uploading. Keep in mind that each image file that you upload should have a unique file name, or it will replace a previously-uploaded image in your account of the same name.
Internet connection issues
If your internet connection is slow (i.e., dial up speeds) then the uploading process may take a while, especially if you haven’t optimized your image file sizes. Slow connections may lead to “time out” errors during uploading; upgrading to a faster internet connection with your Internet Service Provider may resolve the matter. If there are connection problems with the internet somewhere between your ISP and WebSpawner’s servers, such as a cut fiber optic cable, then there isn’t anything that you (or WebSpawner) can do other than to wait for the problem to be resolved.
By following these suggestions, you can resolve most image upload issues, as well as saving some time during the upload process. There are many fine programs available to edit images which will allow you to resize, optimize, and save your images in a compatible file format, including professional-level editors like Photoshop and Paint Shop Pro. But, it isn’t necessary to buy an expensive software solution either; below are some programs which will get the job done for you for free: