Optimal method for showcasing background images using CSS

I'm looking to enhance my website with a vintage, torn page background image. The edges are uneven and have a drop shadow effect. You can view the image here. However, the file size is currently almost 1MB! I've tried reducing it in Photoshop, but due to its transparency, options seem limited.

Considering using nested divs, I've created this structure:

 <div id="page-top">
        <div id="page-left">
            <div id="page-right">
                <div id="page-bottom">
                    <div id="page-content">

                    </div>
                </div>
            </div>
        </div>
    </div>

After slicing up the image and applying CSS styling, I noticed that the page was disregarding the parent div's properties. It was overlapping its background image over the parent's instead of starting below it as intended, resulting in height issues.

Just for reference, here's a screenshot showing how my page appeared with a grass background applied (in case you were curious).

Below is the CSS I used:

body{
background:url('../images/bg1.jpg') repeat-x top left;
}

#page-top{
width:100%;    
background:url('../images/pagebgTOP.png') no-repeat top left;

}

#page-left{
background:url('../images/pagebgLEFT.png') no-repeat top left;
height:640px;
margin-top:20px;
}

#page-content{
width:100%;
 background:url('../images/pageBG.png') repeat top left;
}

What do you suggest as the best approach? Keep in mind that I want a drop shadow on the image's actual edges, not just the boundary box, and I also need to significantly reduce the file size.

Answer №1

It's fascinating to ponder this question, as the answer delves beyond mere CSS tricks. Is that large photo really necessary as your background image? Consider how websites have evolved from the 90s to today - extravagant photos with unnecessary drop shadows that require complex code hacks, ultimately slowing down the site and diverting the user from the content, which should be the main focus, right?

To address the issue of your background image size, utilizing image compression tools is crucial. Personally, I highly recommend Yahoo's smush.it. However, with a transparent PNG like yours, reducing it to under 1mb without compromising its dimensions can be challenging. Converting it to a JPEG with a white background can significantly reduce the size - smush.it decreased the JPEG size to 50k.

For insights into current web design trends and innovative CSS techniques, consider exploring websites like . This will provide you with inspiration on how to implement design features effectively.

I cannot endorse implementing a background image with torn edges and drop shadow, but I aim to guide you towards finding a superior solution that will greatly enhance your skills in web design.

Answer №2

Split this picture into two separate images.

  1. Create a JPEG image with the interior details. Experiment with different levels of compression, aiming for as low as 60 or even 50 while still maintaining good quality.
  2. Design a PNG image showcasing only the irregular parts, shadows, and a transparent rectangle in the center.

Use the PNG image as the background for the outer container, and the JPG image for the inner content.

The additional HTTP request is definitely justified by the reduction in image size. For those proficient in Photoshop, consider creating a seamless tile for the interior portion, although it may be challenging to achieve.

Answer №3

If you're working in Photoshop, navigate to File -> Save for Web & Devices. When saving as a JPEG and selecting "Progressive," the photo will load in resolution increments. This results in the user seeing a low-res version first, with the resolution increasing as it loads.

Alternatively, you can use JavaScript to make the image fade in. While this won't speed up loading time, it will create a smoother transition compared to the image simply popping into view when ready.

//fade-in effect
$(function () {
    var img = new Image();
    $(img).load(function () {
            $("#loaded").fadeIn();
            $("#loader").removeClass('loading');
    }).error(function () {
        // alert the user that the image failed to load
    }).attr('src', '../picturename.jpg');
});

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