4 steps to a new look blog
This lens is based on my experience creating a blog on wordpress.com. I wanted to create a different look for my blog without much work. I used the Kubrick theme, but the same approach can be used with other themes or people using a full install of Wordpress on their own hosting account. The fast way to create a new look for a blog based on the Kubrick theme is to change the header image.
The instructions below will help you find and create a wordpress header in no time ...
Step One: Choose your photo source
I use iStockphoto to find photos because it has a large selection, is affordable (you even get access to some free images) and has a good search function. You could use other sources - including other stock photo sites or Flickr (make sure you have permission).
If you are using iStockphoto go to iStockphoto, join if you haven't already.
If you are using iStockphoto go to iStockphoto, join if you haven't already.
Step Two: Choose a photo that suits your blog
The exact method for finding a photo will differ depending on your source. If you are using iStockphoto read on for some tips - otherwise find your photo and skip to the next step.
First check out my Squidoo lens on iStockphoto which has tips for finding a great photo.
Key points to consider in choosing a photo ...
First check out my Squidoo lens on iStockphoto which has tips for finding a great photo.
Key points to consider in choosing a photo ...
- You need an image that is flat enough to read text on (you can always manipulate/filter the image to achieve this).
- Choose a wide enough image, ideally at least 760 pixels wide (the standard Kubrick header image is 760 x 200 pixels). You probably need the "small" size which is normally two iStock credits. Note: you can search iStockphoto just for photos with a horizontal orientation by selecting the option in the search options.
- If this photo isn't quite right you can still crop or manipulate it.
- Remember to check out what iStockphoto is currently offering in their free stock image collection. The dollar bin, where the photos are $1 regardless of size is also a good place to look.
Step Three: Manipulate the image for use as a Wordpress header
Open up the image in Photoshop or your chosen image editor.
You are going to need to crop the image. The default Kubrick header is 760 x 200 pixels. Choose a slice you want.
Is text going to be readable over the image? There are a couple of ways to handle this. First, you can add the text into the header and hide the heading for your blog. The second option is to flatten or reduce the colors. Apply filters to the image in your image editor to achieve this.
Manipulate the image in any other ways required.
You are going to need to crop the image. The default Kubrick header is 760 x 200 pixels. Choose a slice you want.
Is text going to be readable over the image? There are a couple of ways to handle this. First, you can add the text into the header and hide the heading for your blog. The second option is to flatten or reduce the colors. Apply filters to the image in your image editor to achieve this.
Manipulate the image in any other ways required.
Step Four: Implement your new header
This portion is written for wordpress.com - if you are using a standard Wordpress install and the Kubrick theme you can simply replace the default Kubrick header image with your new header image.
For wordpress.com blogs, go to your blogs admin area at and select the option 'custom header image' under the 'presentation' tab.
Upload your image.
Now you might want to hide the text over the image or change the text color to make the text more readable.
Remember that you can always revert if you are not satisfied with the result.
For wordpress.com blogs, go to your blogs admin area at and select the option 'custom header image' under the 'presentation' tab.
Upload your image.
Now you might want to hide the text over the image or change the text color to make the text more readable.
Remember that you can always revert if you are not satisfied with the result.
You want more?
For more on stock photos and iStockphoto check out Finding photos for your website - Stock Photo Tips, a blog about Find Great Stock Photos, and of course iStockphoto.
Examples of great stock photos ...
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