Title here
Summary here
Default Featured Image
Set a default featured image that displays for any post or page without its own. Fill gaps in blog archives, fix social share previews, and maintain visual consistency across your site.
Use Cases
- Set a branded placeholder for hundreds of old posts missing featured images
- Ensure Facebook and Twitter show your logo when posts without images are shared
- Apply consistent images to imported content from old CMS systems
How It Works
- Select a default image in module settings
- Posts with featured images → Show their own image
- Posts without featured images → Show the default image
The default applies everywhere featured images display: archives, category pages, widgets, related posts, and social shares.
Settings
| Setting | Description |
|---|---|
| Default Image | Select from media library or upload new |
Where to Find It
Configure in Switchboard → Media → Default Featured Image. Click “Select Image” to choose an image from your media library.
Selecting Your Default Image
The settings panel shows:
- Current image preview (or placeholder if none set)
- Select/Change Image button — Opens the media library
- Remove Image button — Clears the default (shows after selecting)
Image Recommendations
| Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Size | 1200×630px (standard social/featured size) |
| Design | Neutral, works with any content |
| Branding | Include logo or brand colors |
| Quality | High resolution for retina displays |
Choose an image that represents your brand without being specific to any topic. A logo on a colored background, abstract pattern, or brand imagery works well.
Where the Default Appears
The default image shows anywhere WordPress looks for featured images:
| Location | Shows Default? |
|---|---|
| Blog archive listings | Yes |
| Category/tag archives | Yes |
| Related posts widgets | Yes |
| Open Graph meta (social shares) | Yes |
| RSS feed images | Yes |
| Theme featured image areas | Yes |
What Doesn’t Change
The default is a display fallback — it doesn’t actually assign images to posts:
- Posts remain “without featured image” in the editor
- Individual post settings aren’t modified
- You can still set featured images per post normally
- Removing the default restores normal behavior
Changing the Default
Simply select a new image in settings. The change takes effect immediately across your entire site — no regeneration or cache clearing needed.
Removing the Default
Click “Remove Image” in settings. Posts without featured images will return to showing no image (or whatever your theme displays by default).
FAQ
Will this set featured images on my posts?
No. This is a display fallback only. Your posts remain without featured images — they just display the default when rendered. You can still set individual featured images normally.Does this affect SEO?
Positively! Having consistent images improves social shares and can reduce bounce rate. The default image appears in Open Graph tags, ensuring posts always have an image when shared on social media.Will the default show in the editor?
No. The post editor shows the actual featured image status. The default only appears on the frontend where featured images are displayed.Can I set different defaults per category?
Currently, there’s one site-wide default. For category-specific images, you’d need to set featured images on individual posts.Does this work with custom post types?
Yes, if the custom post type supports featured images (thumbnails). The default applies to any post type usingthe_post_thumbnail() or similar functions.What size image should I use?
Use your theme’s largest featured image size. 1200×630px works well for most themes and is optimal for social sharing. Check your theme documentation for specific recommendations.PRO
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