Using image_resize_dimensions to resize images in WordPress
The image_resize_dimensions function in WordPress is a part of the WordPress core function library. Its primary role is to calculate the new dimensions of an image. This function is used when there is a need to resize an image, either by cropping or scaling.
By using this function, WordPress can determine the appropriate dimensions for the resized image, ensuring that the aspect ratio of the original image is maintained. This is particularly important when images are being resized for different display contexts, such as thumbnails, medium, or large image sizes. The function will calculate the width and height based on the original image dimensions and the desired size.
In addition, the image_resize_dimensions function also plays a crucial role when the crop parameter is set. In such a case, the function will calculate the dimensions in a way that the image is cropped from its center.
This function is an integral part of WordPress’s image handling capabilities, facilitating the creation of image sizes that fit the specific needs of a website’s design and layout.
Parameters Accepted by the image_resize_dimensions Function
The image_resize_dimensions function in WordPress accepts five parameters, as detailed below:
$orig_w (int): This is a required parameter that represents the original width of the image in pixels.$orig_h (int): This is also a required parameter and it signifies the original height of the image in pixels.$dest_w (int): This required parameter indicates the desired new width for the image in pixels.$dest_h (int): This required parameter denotes the desired new height for the image in pixels.$crop (bool|array): This optional parameter, with a default value of false, determines whether the image should be cropped to the specified width and height, or simply resized. If an array is provided, it can be used to specify the position of the crop area.
Return Value of the image_resize_dimensions Function
The image_resize_dimensions function returns either an array or false. The returned array corresponds with the parameters for the imagecopyresampled() function. If the function fails to execute successfully, it returns false.
Examples
Example 1: How to Resize an Image Without Cropping
Here’s an example of how you can use the image_resize_dimensions function to resize an image without cropping it:
$orig_w = 800;
$orig_h = 600;
$dest_w = 400;
$dest_h = 300;
$dimensions = image_resize_dimensions($orig_w, $orig_h, $dest_w, $dest_h, false);
if ($dimensions) {
list($dst_x, $dst_y, $src_x, $src_y, $dst_w, $dst_h, $src_w, $src_h) = $dimensions;
// Use these dimensions to resize your image
}
In this example, we’re resizing an image that originally has a width of 800 pixels and a height of 600 pixels to a new width of 400 pixels and a height of 300 pixels. The last parameter is set to false which means the image will not be cropped.
Example 2: How to Crop an Image While Resizing
Here’s an example of how you can use the image_resize_dimensions function to resize an image and crop it:
$orig_w = 800;
$orig_h = 600;
$dest_w = 400;
$dest_h = 300;
$dimensions = image_resize_dimensions($orig_w, $orig_h, $dest_w, $dest_h, true);
if ($dimensions) {
list($dst_x, $dst_y, $src_x, $src_y, $dst_w, $dst_h, $src_w, $src_h) = $dimensions;
// Use these dimensions to resize and crop your image
}
In this example, we’re resizing an image that originally has a width of 800 pixels and a height of 600 pixels to a new width of 400 pixels and a height of 300 pixels. The last parameter is set to true which means the image will be cropped to the specified dimensions.
Example 3: How to Use Custom Crop Position
Here’s an example of how you can use the image_resize_dimensions function to resize an image and crop it at a custom position:
$orig_w = 800;
$orig_h = 600;
$dest_w = 400;
$dest_h = 300;
$crop = array('center', 'top');
$dimensions = image_resize_dimensions($orig_w, $orig_h, $dest_w, $dest_h, $crop);
if ($dimensions) {
list($dst_x, $dst_y, $src_x, $src_y, $dst_w, $dst_h, $src_w, $src_h) = $dimensions;
// Use these dimensions to resize and crop your image
}
In this example, we’re resizing an image that originally has a width of 800 pixels and a height of 600 pixels to a new width of 400 pixels and a height of 300 pixels. The $crop parameter is an array specifying the position of the crop area. In this case, the image will be cropped from the center top.
Conclusion
The image_resize_dimensions function in WordPress is an essential tool that can be used to calculate new dimensions for a resized image. This function provides the ability to adjust the size of an image while maintaining its original aspect ratio, which can be particularly useful when creating thumbnails or resizing images for responsive designs. By understanding and implementing the image_resize_dimensions function, developers can effectively manage image sizing within their WordPress sites, contributing to improved site performance and visual consistency.