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How does lazy loading images impact LCP?
Asked on Dec 01, 2025
Answer
Lazy loading images can significantly improve the Largest Contentful Paint (LCP) by deferring the loading of images that are not immediately visible on the screen. This reduces the initial load time and allows the browser to prioritize critical resources.
Example Concept: Lazy loading delays the loading of images until they are about to enter the viewport. By using the "loading" attribute set to "lazy" on image elements, browsers can prioritize above-the-fold content, reducing the time it takes for the largest visible content to render, thereby improving LCP.
Additional Comment:
- Lazy loading is particularly beneficial for pages with many images, as it reduces the initial page weight.
- Ensure that critical images, like hero images, are not lazy-loaded to avoid negatively impacting LCP.
- Use the "loading='lazy'" attribute on img tags to enable native lazy loading in supported browsers.
- Monitor LCP using tools like Google Lighthouse or WebPageTest to verify improvements.
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