---
title: "Media Blocks"
source: "https://docs.nexcess.com/software/learndash/academy/media-blocks/"
description: "[wp101 video=\"media-blocks\"] In this video, the instructor highlights some of the media blocks included by default in WordPress, expanding on earlier lessons ab…"
vertical: "Software"
area: "Academy"
topics: ["Customizing", "Getting Started", "Videos", "WordPress 101"]
date: "2023-02-22"
last_modified: "2023-02-22"
---

# Media Blocks

\[wp101 video=”media-blocks”\]

In this video, the instructor highlights some of the **media blocks** included by default in WordPress, expanding on earlier lessons about adding images, audio, video, and PDFs.

---

#### **1. Gallery Block**

- Lets you display multiple images in a grid-style layout.
- Options: 
    - Upload new images or choose from the **Media Library**.
    - Add **individual captions** for each image or a caption for the entire gallery.
    - Reorder, replace, or remove images anytime.
    - Align the gallery **left, center, right, wide, or full-width**.
    - Block settings include: 
        - **Crop thumbnails** so images appear uniform.
        - Choose what happens when users click an image: 
            - Open full-size version
            - Open an attachment page
            - Or do nothing
        - Select **thumbnail, medium, or full-size** image display.

---

#### **2. Cover Block**

- Displays a **large, full-width image with text overlay**.
- Add a **title or paragraph text** over the image (with full formatting options).
- Can even add **additional blocks** on top of the image.
- Parent block controls let you: 
    - Align the cover block **left, center, right, wide, or full-width**.
- Settings include: 
    - **Fixed background** toggle (parallax effect) or scrolling background.
    - **Focal point picker** to highlight the most important area of the image.
    - **Overlay color** options (solid color or gradient).
    - Adjust **overlay opacity** to balance image visibility.

---

#### **3. Media & Text Block**

- Combines an **image (or video)** with a text area side-by-side.
- Features: 
    - Usual text formatting options available.
    - Resize the image by dragging handles.
    - Change block width and align image to the **left or right** of the text.
    - Adjust **vertical alignment** of the text relative to the image.
    - Block settings allow: 
        - Changing **text and background colors**
        - **Stacking image above text** on smaller screens (mobile-friendly)
        - **Cropping the image** to fill its column, with adjustable focal point
    - Always add **alt text** for accessibility.

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### **Key Takeaway:**

Default WordPress media blocks like **Gallery, Cover, and Media & Text** help you create **dynamic, media-rich pages** without extra plugins. These blocks make it easy to showcase images, overlay text, and design engaging layouts for both desktop and mobile users.