What are the best practices for lazy loading images on a website?

What are the best practices for lazy loading images on a website?

Lazy loading images can significantly improve your website's performance. Here are some best practices: 1. Use the loading attribute with lazy value in your <img> tags. 2. Implement a JavaScript library for more control, like Intersection Observer. 3. Ensure that images have defined dimensions to prevent layout shifts. 4. Prioritize above-the-fold images for immediate loading.

How does lazy loading affect SEO?

Lazy loading can positively affect SEO if implemented correctly. Search engines can still crawl and index lazy-loaded images if you use proper attributes and ensure that images are loaded when they come into the viewport. However, make sure to provide alt text for accessibility and SEO benefits.

Are there any drawbacks to lazy loading?

Yes, there can be drawbacks. If not implemented properly, it may lead to images not loading at all for some users. Additionally, if lazy loading is applied to critical images, it can negatively impact user experience.

What tools can I use to implement lazy loading?

You can use various tools and libraries like LazyLoad.js, Lozad.js, or native lazy loading with the loading attribute. Additionally, many frameworks like React and Vue have built-in support for lazy loading.