What is the best practice for keeping images in the same area within a hero section in Webflow? Should I create a large image with all the images in it and use that as the background, or should I create a grid with each section having a relative position instead of the body?

To keep multiple images aligned consistently within a hero section in Webflow, the best practice is to use a layout structure like Flexbox or Grid, not a single composite image. Here's why and how to implement it properly.

1. Use Individual Images Instead of One Composite Image

• Avoid combining all images into one large background image. This approach reduces flexibility for responsiveness, animation, and SEO (each image won’t be identifiable individually).
• Separate image elements allow for better accessibility, fast loading with lazy loading, and easy repositioning for different screen sizes.

2. Use CSS Grid or Flexbox for Layout

• Use CSS Grid for complex, multi-axis placement (rows and columns).
• Use Flexbox if you're aligning images in a single row or column.

In Webflow:

• Add a parent div to act as a container (e.g., “hero-image-wrapper”).
• Set the container's Display to Grid or Flex.
• Place each image inside its own div block for better control.

Example:

• For a 3x2 image layout, set the parent to Grid with 3 columns and 2 rows.
• Adjust gap spacing and alignment settings directly within the designer.

3. Use Positioning Sparingly

• Avoid setting all image containers to position: relative unless needed for overlay or precise offsets.
• Let Grid/Flex handle the base layout, and layer additional position styles only when necessary (e.g., an image slightly overlapping another).

4. Consider Responsiveness and Scaling

• Use percentage widths, VW/ VH units, or max-width settings to ensure images scale well on different devices.
• Add media queries or use Webflow’s breakpoint settings to rearrange or resize elements responsively.

5. Optimize Image Loading

• Use Webflow’s built-in image optimization features, including lazy loading (loading="lazy"), and set appropriate image sizes for each layout breakpoint.
• Compress images before uploading to reduce load times.

Summary

Use Grid or Flexbox layout with individual images in separate divs to align images in a hero section. Avoid using one large background image, and use positioning only when necessary. This approach is scalable, responsive, and SEO-friendly.