Choose and check a WordPress featured image
A featured image represents a WordPress page or post in places such as article cards and some social previews. Its display depends on the theme and connected tools. It is separate from an ordinary image inserted into the article, so adding one does not guarantee a banner will appear at the top.
Before you start
- Choose an image you have permission to publish.
- Check an existing post to see how this theme uses featured images.
- Keep the original file and prepare a suitable web copy.
What to do
Choose a recognisable subject
Pick something that represents the article accurately at a small size. A close view of a finished garden can work better than a busy collage for a landscaping story. Avoid tiny text that only makes sense when the image fills the screen.
Set the featured image
Open the post or page settings and use its Featured image control. Select the intended file rather than adding another Image block in the content. If the control is absent, check the theme or custom content type before changing templates.
Inspect every important placement
Preview the full article and the listing card. Check whether faces, signs or important work details disappear in a square or wide crop. If the article already starts with the same photograph, decide whether the theme creates an unnecessary double image.
Check the sharing setup separately
Review the social-preview setting provided by your SEO or sharing tool. A featured image may be used as a fallback, but another configured image can take priority. After publication, a social service may retain a cached older preview for a while.
What to check
- The picture honestly represents the article.
- Its crop works in the theme’s listing and page layout.
- The intended sharing image is not assumed from the editor alone.
Sources and further reading
Platform features can change. Check the provider’s current guidance before changing a live service.