References

Beginner-friendly references for web development, with live, editable examples.

The HTML poster attribute

Attribute All modern browsers Updated
Quick answer

The HTML poster attribute specifies an image to show while the video downloads or until the user plays it. It is used on the <video> element.

Overview

The poster attribute sets a placeholder image for a video. It is used on the <video>, <audio>, <source> and <track> elements.

It configures native audio or video playback — the source, controls, autoplay and looping behavior, the poster image, and text tracks. It works with the <video>/<audio> elements and their nested <source> and <track> children.

Syntax

<video src="clip.mp4" poster="cover.jpg" controls></video>

Values

Value
A URL pointing to an image.

Best practices

  • Provide controls so users can play, pause and seek.
  • Browsers only allow autoplay when the media is also muted.
  • Always add captions with a <track> for accessibility.
  • Offer multiple formats with nested <source> elements for broad support.

Frequently asked questions

What does the poster attribute do?
Sets a placeholder image for a video.
Why won't my video autoplay?
Browsers block autoplay with sound. The media must be muted to autoplay.
How do I make media accessible?
Add captions via a <track>, and provide a transcript for audio-only content.
Which elements use the poster attribute?
It is an element-specific attribute, used on the <video>, <audio>, <source> and <track> elements.
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