Photography is a visual business. Your website should reflect that without making you jump through hoops to build and maintain it.
WordPress blocks give photographers an easier, faster way to create stunning, high-converting websites without relying on bloated page builders for aesthetics and functionality.
The Block Editor has changed the game. Blocks make it easier to customize layouts, display portfolios, and streamline workflows without drowning in unnecessary plugins.
This means no more dealing with clunky shortcodes or rigid templates. Just flexible, intuitive building blocks that let your images do the talking.
In this article, I’ll explain:
- Why photographers should ditch the classic editor and embrace WordPress blocks
- The best WordPress blocks for showcasing photography, building trust, and converting visitors
- Advanced blocks that add interactivity and engagement
- A sneak peek at our upcoming custom block designed specifically for photographers
Let’s get right to it.
The Rise of Blocks in WordPress
WordPress has evolved. The Block Editor offers a modular, intuitive way to build websites without wrestling with shortcodes or custom HTML. It makes sense why more and more users are favoring the Block Editor over the Classic Editor.
Photographers need simplicity, speed, and control. That’s exactly why blocks are replacing the Classic Editor and even third-party page builders.
With blocks, you get:
- Ease of use. You can drag, drop, and arrange content as you please.
- Flexibility. Build any sort of layout, from simple galleries to advanced landing pages.
- Speed. Fewer heavy plugins mean faster page load times.
- Customization. Tailor each page to your brand without dealing with rigid templates.
- Control. You don’t have to rely on third-party page builders that slow down your site.
Most importantly, blocks let photographers focus on what truly matters to them – stunning visuals – without getting lost in tech complexity.
Native blocks vs. plugin-installed blocks
WordPress comes with a set of native (core) blocks – like the Image Block, Gallery Block, and Cover Block – giving you basic tools to structure pages.
For advanced functionality, photographers turn to plugin-installed blocks. These third-party blocks introduce features like customizable pricing tables, before-and-after image comparisons, and interactive slideshows.
10+ Essential WordPress Blocks for Photographers
As a photographer, your website needs to do three things well: (1) showcase your work, (2) build trust, and (3) convert visitors into clients. The right blocks make that happen without unnecessary complexity.
Let’s break them down.
1. Gallery Block (Core/Plugin-Installed)
A gallery block is a must-have for photographers. It’s the simplest way to showcase multiple images in a clean, customizable layout.
It lets you create stunning galleries with grid or masonry formats, add captions, and adjust column settings for the perfect visual balance.
A well-structured gallery keeps visitors engaged, making it easy to browse your work without distractions. A gallery block ensures your images take center stage. It’s a must-have for photographers, whether they want to display wedding albums, portrait sessions, or commercial shoots.
Recommendation: Use the core Gallery Block and Grid Block for simplicity and layout flexibility or use the Meow Gallery block for neat features like lightbox and multiple layouts including tiles, masonry, justified, square, and cascade.
2. Image Block (Core)
A simple image block is the foundation of any photography website. It lets you add single images with full control over alignment, captions, and alt text. You can adjust sizing, apply rounded corners, and link images to custom URLs – giving you flexibility without extra plugins.
As a photographer, you can use this block to showcase hero images, behind-the-scenes shots, or standout portfolio pieces. Unlike gallery blocks, it lets you highlight individual photos with impact, making them the focal point of the page.
Recommendation: Stick with the core Image Block for clean, distraction-free photo displays.
3. Testimonial Block (Plugin-Installed)
Word-of-mouth sells. Having a testimonial block on your website helps you showcase glowing client reviews. Many plugins offer customizable testimonial blocks with options for star ratings, client photos, and even slider-style layouts for dynamic displays.
For photographers, social proof is everything. A strong testimonial block builds trust, establishes credibility, and reassures potential clients that you deliver results.
Recommendation: Use Testimonial Block for maximum customization and impact.
4. Plans and Pricing Block (Plugin-Installed)
A plans and pricing block helps photographers showcase their service packages in a structured, easy-to-read format. You want to go with one that offers features like columns, toggles for one-time vs. recurring payments, and highlight sections for featured packages.
For potential clients, transparent pricing removes hesitation and speeds up decision-making. A well-designed pricing block ensures they know exactly what they’re getting – no back-and-forth needed.
Recommendation: Use Stackable’s Pricing Box Block for flexible layouts and customization options.
5. Contact Form Block (Plugin-Installed)
A contact form block makes it easy for potential clients to reach out without hunting for your email address. Many plugins offer customizable forms with fields for names, messages, booking inquiries, and even file uploads for collaboration requests.
For photographers, direct communication is key. A well-placed contact form streamlines inquiries, reducing friction and making it effortless for clients to book a session or ask questions.
Recommendation: Use Contact Form Block for a seamless and professional inquiry process.
6. Call-to-Action Block (Plugin-Installed)
A call-to-action block is essential for guiding visitors toward your most important goals – whether it’s booking a session, viewing your portfolio, or scheduling a discovery call. These blocks let you add attention-grabbing headlines, buttons, and background images to drive action.
For photographers, a strong CTA ensures potential clients don’t just browse – they take the next step. Without one, you’re leaving bookings on the table.
Recommendation: Use the Stackable’s Call to Action Block or Call To Action Customizable Block for maximum flexibility and impact.
7. Social Media Integration Blocks (Core/Plugin-Installed)
A social media integration block connects your website to your social profiles, making it easy for visitors to follow your work on platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. Some blocks let you add social icons, while others enable sharing buttons to increase engagement.
A strong presence on social media builds credibility, expands your reach, and keeps potential clients engaged beyond your website.
Recommendation: Use the core Social Icons Block to link to profiles and the plugin-installed Social Share Block to encourage visitors to share your work.
8. Cover Block (Core)
If you want to create visually striking sections with full-width images, text overlays, and call-to-action buttons, you might consider using the Cover Block. You can adjust opacity, apply fixed background effects, and layer content for a professional look.
For photographers, this block is perfect for homepage banners, section headers, or feature sections that highlight your best work. It ensures your images make an impact while keeping the design clean and functional.
Recommendation: Use the Cover Block that comes with the Block Editor to create bold, high-quality visual sections that draw visitors in.
9. Embed Block (Core)
The Embed Block allows you to seamlessly add videos, social media posts, and other external content directly to your website. It supports popular platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, and Instagram without requiring extra plugins.
You can showcase behind-the-scenes footage, client testimonials, or editing tutorials. This humanizes your brand and gives visitors a deeper look into your work and process.
Recommendation: Use the Embed Block to enhance storytelling and engage your audience with dynamic content.
10. Before/After Image Block (Plugin-Installed)
Before/after style image comparisons are perfect for photographers who offer editing or retouching services. Users can slide between two images to see transformations in real-time.
For photographers, this block is a powerful way to showcase your skills – whether it’s color grading, retouching, or restoration. It visually demonstrates the value of your work in a way words can’t.
Recommendation: Use Before After Image Comparison or Ultimate Before After Image Slider & Gallery for seamless before-and-after displays.
11. Slideshow Block (Plugin-Installed)
A slideshow block allows photographers to display dynamic, interactive image galleries that cycle through photos automatically or with user controls. Many plugins offer customizable transitions, autoplay settings, and navigation options to enhance presentation.
For photographers, this block is ideal for showcasing project highlights, wedding albums, or storytelling sequences – keeping visitors engaged without overwhelming them with static grids.
Recommendation: Use Jetpack’s Slideshow Block to create visually appealing, high-impact image displays.
Our Upcoming Custom Block for Photographers
We’re always looking for ways to improve the photographer’s workflow. That’s why we’re developing our first custom WordPress block, designed to replace our old shortcode for displaying collections.
This new block will make it easier than ever to build a client area and showcase client galleries with a modern, intuitive interface – right inside the WordPress editor.
What this custom block will offer:
- Seamless collection embedding. Add a list of collections directly into pages or posts without dealing with shortcodes.
- Better customization. Adjust settings visually with just a few clicks – no need to add parameters to the shortcode.
- Improved performance. A more efficient, lightweight solution optimized for speed and responsiveness.
Here’s how it can benefit photographers:
- Less friction, more efficiency. No extra steps, no code – just a streamlined way to present your work.
- A better client experience. Collections will look cleaner and more professional on any device.
Here’s an exclusive sneak peak at what’s coming!
Best Practices for Using Blocks on Photography Websites
Using WordPress blocks effectively isn’t just about adding features. You’re creating a seamless experience that highlights your photography.
Follow these best practices to ensure your website is both visually stunning and highly functional.
- Use high-quality images that load quickly. Optimize file sizes to maintain sharpness without slowing down your site.
- Keep the design simple and intuitive. Let your images do the talking. Avoid cluttered layouts and unnecessary elements.
- Ensure responsiveness. Your site should look flawless on desktops, tablets, and mobile devices.
- Test blocks for performance. Some blocks can slow down your site so it’s a good idea to always test for speed and compatibility.
- Prioritize functionality over flashy effects. Over-the-top animations can distract from your work.
- Focus on the imagery and user experience. Blocks should enhance, not overshadow, your photos.
Keep in mind that some themes offer these features and blocks out of the box. You should always explore the theme you’re using (and the blocks it offers) and then see what you need to extend with plugins.
Your website’s design plays a huge role in how your work is perceived, but the content of your portfolio matters just as much. If you’re wondering what to showcase, check out our guide on what to include in a professional photography portfolio to ensure your portfolio highlights your best work and attracts the right clients.
Conclusion
WordPress blocks have transformed how photographers build and manage their websites offering greater flexibility, ease of use, and powerful customization options.
From essential blocks like galleries and testimonials to advanced tools like before/after sliders and slideshows, blocks streamline workflows and enhance the way you showcase your work.
As blocks continue to evolve, photographers who embrace them gain full control over their website’s design and functionality, without relying on bulky page builders. And with picu’s upcoming custom collection block, building a client area and displaying proofing galleries will be more intuitive and seamless than ever.