What is the purpose of image optimization in WordPress?

Image optimization in WordPress is aimed at reducing the file size of images without significantly affecting their quality. This helps to improve website loading times, enhance user experience, and can positively impact SEO rankings.

How do I check the image compression statistics in WordPress?

You can check image compression statistics in WordPress by using plugins like Smush. These plugins provide detailed analytics on the original size of images, the size after optimization, and the percentage of size reduction achieved.

What does the term 'lossy' mean in image compression?

'Lossy' refers to a type of image compression that reduces file size by removing some data from the original image, which may slightly affect quality. It's often used for photographs where minor loss is tolerable, allowing for significantly smaller file sizes.

Can I optimize images for an e-commerce website?

Yes, optimizing images is especially crucial for e-commerce websites as it can improve loading speeds, enhance user experience, and potentially increase conversion rates. Plugins like Smush can help in optimizing product images and gallery thumbnails effectively.

What are the different image sizes used in WordPress?

WordPress typically uses several predefined image sizes including thumbnail, medium, large, and full size. Additionally, for WooCommerce sites, sizes like 'woocommerce_thumbnail' and 'woocommerce_gallery_thumbnail' are also commonly used to optimize product images.