Overview

This guide explains how to send image files to your customers via WhatsApp Business API. Images are a powerful way to share visual information like product photos, receipts, infographics, or promotional content.

Who this is for: Developers integrating WhatsApp messaging capabilities into their applications.

What you'll learn: How to format and send image messages, including format requirements, size limits, and messaging restrictions.

Before You Start

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API Token Required
You need a valid API authentication token to use this endpoint. Learn how to obtain your token in the WhatsApp Business API authentication guide.

Understanding the 24-Hour Messaging Window

WhatsApp enforces a 24-hour messaging window for business-initiated conversations:

Timeframe	What You Can Send
Within 24 hours of customer's last message	Any message type (text, images, videos, etc.)
After 24 hours	Only pre-approved message templates

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Important Limitation
If you attempt to send an image message outside the 24-hour window, the API will return an error. Use message templates to reach customers after this window expires.

Supported Image Formats

Your image files must meet these requirements:

Format	MIME Type	Typical Use Case	Maximum Size
JPEG	`image/jpeg`	Photos and general images	5 MB
PNG	`image/png`	Graphics with transparency	5 MB
WebP	`image/webp`	Optimized for smaller file sizes	5 MB

Best Practices

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Tips for Better Delivery

Optimize for mobile viewing – Most users will view images on mobile devices
Choose the right format:
- JPEG for photographs
- PNG for graphics with transparency
- WebP for smaller file sizes and faster loading
Keep captions concise – Short, relevant descriptions work best
Test URLs before sending – Ensure image links are publicly accessible (no authentication required)
Stay under the size limit – Compress images to stay well below 5 MB for faster delivery

Common Errors

Issue	Possible Cause	Solution
Message rejected	24-hour window expired	Use a message template instead
Image not delivered	URL not publicly accessible	Check that the URL loads without authentication
Format error	Unsupported image format	Use JPEG, PNG, or WebP only
File size error	Image exceeds 5 MB	Compress or resize the image

Related Resources

Upload Media API – Upload images to get a media ID
Send Template Messages – Message customers outside the 24-hour window
WhatsApp Business Authentication – Get your API token