How to Add Custom Fields to WordPress Media Library

If you’re looking to customize your WordPress site and add a personal touch, it’s essential to incorporate custom fields into the WordPress Media Library. This feature enables you to attach relevant data to your uploads. 

While there are several methods to achieve this, we recommend focusing on the two most effective options. Utilize the Advanced Custom Fields plugin or the Add Custom Fields to Media plugin to streamline the process. 

Both methods are straightforward and efficient, ensuring you can enhance your Media Library with ease.

Need to Add Custom Fields to WordPress Media Library

Integrating unique custom fields into your media uploads is essential for maximizing organization and efficiency. The primary advantage is that it significantly enhances your ability to manage your media files.

Incorporating metadata, such as the photographer’s name and copyright details, allows for seamless searching and filtering within your media library.

It’s important to note that to fully utilize custom field filtering, you will need a plugin, as WordPress’s built-in options are inadequate.

Additionally, using custom fields is crucial for effective content management, especially for sites featuring contributions from multiple creators.

For example, you should include fields for source credits and licensing information, which ensures that all contributions are accurately attributed and properly managed.

How to Add Custom Fields to WordPress Media Library

WordPress includes built-in features for creating custom fields and adding them to media uploads, but these features lack user-friendliness.

Therefore, most users and developers choose to utilize plugins that streamline this process.

Let’s take a closer look at two robust plugins that effectively enhance the ability to add custom fields to your WordPress media.

1. By Using Advanced Custom Fields Plugin

Advanced Custom Fields (ACF) is the leading plugin for creating and displaying custom fields.

We will utilize it in this example because of its extensive community support, ensuring you have the assistance you need if any issues arise.

Follow the below steps to Add Custom Fields to WordPress Media Library With the Advanced Custom Fields Plugin.

Installation of Advanced Custom Fields Plugin

To install the Advanced Custom Fields (ACF) plugin, navigate to Plugins >> Add New in your admin dashboard. Locate for “Advanced Custom Fields” and then install and activate the plugin.

Creating a New Field Group

After activating ACF, navigate to ACF >> Field Groups in the WordPress dashboard. Press on “Add New” to create a field group. This feature enables you to add multiple custom fields at once, streamlining the process instead of adding each field individually. Take control of your custom fields efficiently.

To maximize clarity and impact, choose a descriptive name for your field group, like “Custom Media Attachment Fields.” This will enhance organization and understanding.

Scroll down to find the options for your custom field. Press on the Field Type dropdown menu to choose the type of field you want to add. For this instance, select the Text field.

In the Field Label text box, enter a name for this specific field. The Field Name text box will automatically populate with the text you input in the Field Label.

This Field Name is what ACF uses internally to identify your new field. You have the option to modify it, but it’s advisable to stick with the default value.

Now to add a Description for your new field navigate to the Presentation tab.

You can adjust the remaining settings for your new field, but you already have everything necessary for it to be functional.

Additionally, we want to demonstrate how field groups simplify the process of bundling multiple fields and applying them simultaneously. To add a new field to the group, press on +Add Field.

Choose the field type and enter a label for the new field. In this instance, it should be a Number field labeled ID Number.

Navigate to the Presentation tab and add Instructions for the newest field.

Associate The New Field Group With Media Files

Now that you have created two custom fields for the group, scroll down to the Settings section.

Here, you will assign this field group to a specific type of content. Make sure to press on the Show this field in the dropdown menu.

Choose Attachment

Press on the Save Changes button. Now, it’s done.

Verify the New Custom Field on Media Files

Now, navigate to Media >> Library to explore your media files. You will see the newly added fields listed at the bottom of the metadata section.

2. By using the Add Custom Fields to Media Plugin

While ACF is widely recognized as the leading plugin for custom fields, you should explore alternatives. One excellent option is “Add Custom Fields to Media.” This plugin enables you to create custom fields specifically for media uploads, such as images.

To begin, navigate to Plugins >> Install New Plugin and search for “Add Custom Fields to Media.” Install and activate it without hesitation.

Once activated, the setup is straightforward. Navigate to Settings >> Media Custom Fields, where you’ll immediately find text boxes to enter your custom field’s Unique ID, Title, and Help text. Take control of your media management with this powerful tool.

The Unique ID is an essential internal identifier. It must be in lowercase letters and contain no special characters—only letters and underscores are acceptable, like “my_unique_id.”

The Title represents the name your field will display in the Media Library. The Help section must contain a description that clearly outlines the field’s purpose.

After completing all these fields, press “Save Changes” without delay. After creating a custom field, its data will be promptly added to a table at the top of the page.

After adding a new custom field, navigate to Media >> Library to view it in the metadata for each upload.

Conclusion

In conclusion, add custom fields to WordPress media library is essential for effectively managing and leveraging your media assets.

By implementing these custom fields, you can optimize your media organization to meet specific requirements, streamline workflows, and enhance content management.

Embracing these enhancements is not just beneficial—it is crucial for saving time and maximizing the functionality of your WordPress site. This approach will allow you to better serve your audience and achieve your content goals with confidence.