WebP on Squarespace Isn't Always Enough
TL;DR:
- Squarespace automatically converts images to WebP format to improve loading speeds
- WebP conversion alone won't fix massive image files (a 6MB image stays heavy even as WebP)
- You still need to resize and compress images before uploading for best performance
- Pre-optimizing gives you control over quality and file size that Squarespace's automatic system can't match
Squarespace handles a lot of image optimization behind the scenes. Every image you upload gets converted to WebP, Google's modern format that creates smaller files than traditional JPEG or PNG. This speeds up your site without you having to think about it.
But there's a catch.
When WebP Isn't Enough
WebP works well for reasonably sized images, but it can't work miracles. Upload a 6MB photo straight from your camera, and even after WebP conversion, you'll still have a hefty file that slows down your pages.
This happens because WebP compression has limits. It can make files smaller, but it can't turn a massive, high-resolution image into something web-friendly if you haven't done the groundwork first.
Getting Better Results Before Upload
The most effective approach is handling optimization before your images hit Squarespace. Here's what makes the biggest difference:
Resize to actual display size. If your image appears at 800px wide on your site, don't upload a 4000px version. Scale it down to roughly double your display size (1600px in this case) to account for high-resolution screens.
Compress with intention. Use tools like Photoshop's "Export for Web" or online compressors where you can see the quality trade-offs in real time. Aim for the sweet spot where file size drops significantly but the image still looks crisp.
Check your work. After uploading optimized images, run your page through Google PageSpeed Insights. It'll tell you if images are still causing performance problems and suggest further improvements.
This extra step gives you control that Squarespace's automatic system simply can't provide. You decide the balance between file size and quality instead of leaving it entirely to the platform.
Platform Differences to Know
This applies to both Squarespace 7.1 and 7.0. The WebP conversion happens regardless of which version you're using, but the newer 7.1 platform generally handles responsive images better across different device sizes.
FAQs
Does Squarespace compress every image I upload?
Yes, through WebP conversion, but this doesn't replace proper resizing and compression on your end, especially for large files.
What's the best image size for Squarespace?
It depends on your layout, but most images work well at 1500-2000px wide with file sizes under 500KB after compression.
Can I turn off WebP conversion?
No, it's automatic across all Squarespace sites. But since WebP improves performance, you wouldn't want to disable it anyway.
Why are my images still slow after WebP conversion?
Usually because the original files were too large. WebP helps, but it can't fix fundamental sizing issues.
Jargon Buster
WebP: Google's image format that creates smaller files than JPEG or PNG while keeping similar quality
Compression: Reducing file size by removing unnecessary data, with some trade-off in image quality
Resizing: Changing image dimensions to match how they'll actually appear on your website
PageSpeed Insights: Google's free tool that analyzes website performance and suggests improvements
Wrap-up
Squarespace's WebP conversion is helpful, but it's not a complete solution for image optimization. The platform does what it can automatically, but you'll get much better performance by resizing and compressing images before upload.
Think of WebP as the final polish, not the main optimization step. Handle the heavy lifting yourself with proper sizing and compression, then let Squarespace's WebP conversion add the finishing touch.
Your visitors will notice the difference in loading speed, and search engines will reward the improved performance.
Ready to dive deeper into Squarespace performance optimization? Join Pixelhaze Academy for comprehensive guides and advanced techniques.