Programmatically change the src of an img tag
To instantly update an img
element's src
, get the HTML element using methods like document.querySelector
or document.getElementById
, and then set its src
attribute:
With this simple line of code, you swap the current image with 'newImage.jpg' on your webpage. Notice that the img
tag requires an id
attribute for easy DOM manipulation.
Listen to your events
A better approach than directly attaching onclick
attributes in HTML is to employ event listeners in JavaScript, as it offers more flexibility and control:
This method also mitigates problems like event propagation, which may mistakenly require multiple clicks to activate the function.
Verify image file paths
Ensure that you specify accurate image file paths so that you don't end up playing hide and seek with your images!
Enhance your code with jQuery
If you're a jQuery fan (and have it properly installed), use its clean syntax to reduce your lines of code:
Bulk update images
If you need to update multiple images at once, use .getElementsByClassName
or .querySelectorAll
:
Tidying up your code
Avoid using inline JavaScript, like onclick
triggers. A big win for aesthetics, maintainability, and debugging. Also, always ensure that you don't accidentally add duplicate event listeners — because twice doesn't always mean nice in JavaScript!
Cross-browser compatibility
Perform thorough testing across a range of browsers for consistent functionality. You'll want your cool image swapping feature to work everywhere, not just in your favourite browser.
Handle event propagation
Understanding event propagation will save you from nightmares of unintended side effects. Proper use of event.stopPropagation()
and event.preventDefault()
will keep your sanity intact.
Was this article helpful?