Dark Mode Image Optimization: Best Practices

The Dark Mode Challenge

Images optimized for light backgrounds can look washed out or harsh in dark mode. Here's how to handle it.

Techniques

1. CSS Filters

Apply filter: brightness(0.8) invert(0) to images in dark mode to reduce glare.

2. Separate Images with picture

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3. SVG for Logos

SVG logos can use currentColor` to automatically adapt to the theme.

4. Reduce Brightness

For photos, slightly reduce brightness in dark mode to avoid eye strain.

File Size Impact

Serving two variants doubles image requests. Use responsive images wisely and consider the bandwidth trade-off.

Related Guides

Responsive Images srcset

WebP Transparency Guide