Spaces in image names preventing transfer

Sorry – taking a further look at things it is possible the problem is with the Media Library or even the database. I added some more files, with spaces in the names, to the media library and then transferred them to NextGen galleries using the add-on with no trouble.

When I look at the previous offending files in the media library they are already “attached” to some galleries that have been deleted, and they have no editable file name. It is still a little mysterious since two files (without spaces) that transferred successfully also appear to have no editable file name.

I shall leave this unresolved for a few days in case others have similar issues and continue to add files to the media library and transfer them to see if the error reoccurs. In addition I will see if there are any issues with the media library that reflect this problem.

Ahhh yes the illusive spaces in file names. so here is how it works:

WP automatically replaces all spaces in file names and URLs with dashed. NGG does not use the Media Library to upload images to its folder, hence the Addon, right. Now then, if a file has spaces, and it is uploaded through a source that does not mingle with the WP Core functionality, then it will be rendered in the Database it %20% in place of the spaces or it will keep the spaces, which will render the file useless.

Changing the Title of the file in the ML will only change the File’s title as it is displayed in the Media Library, but it will not change the file name.

It is always best practice to ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS name any files WITHOUT ANY SPACES. Just don’t do it. it can cause strange things to happen like PAWrite has mentioned.

Thanks for the explanation!
This is good general advice about file names which I usually follow, however I can’t babysit my clients when it comes to naming their files, although I can give them written instructions to follow.

What you have told me does make sense of how the problem originated as I was using another gallery plugin before I installed NGG which was used to upload images to the media library.

Given that I am developing a site for a client who will be responsible for uploading her own files, which will usually consist of photographs or scans of “named” art work, this actually becomes a good selling point for your add-on. She can be taught to use the normal media library upload and use your addon to add images to NGG galleries.

Thanks again.

I’m glad I could help. And don’t forget, as a loyal user, please feel free to suggest Features you think will improve the plugin for not only your use, but for the use of Client Admins.

We also work with clients, some of which want to admin their own sites, as well. So we are well aware of the gap between experience. While WP is by far the best platform to use for the novice Web Admin, there are still general rules that apply, as the one we are talking about here.

I will be adding a new section to our website that will cover some of the most common things we run into with Clients, if we can ever get some free time. LOL

Thanks again,

Johnny