Better performance for slideshows

Question

In a recent project, I used Nivo Slider to build a slideshow. This is a solid solution, with useful options, but my users complain that it is slow to load. And they are right, because the script needs all the images loaded to run.

I am looking for tips to improve performance, and maybe recommendations on solutions to replace Nivo Slider. I mean of course advice beyond the obvious (like using lighter images and reducing the total number of slides).

Edit: to clarify the context, the images are pulled from a gallery maintained by the users. I have no control on the images themselves.

Answer 1

I would suggest you consider a progressive loading slideshow whereby the images are loaded prior to being shown. Take a look at the jQuery Cycle plugin, specifically this example which shows how to add a slide to the slideshow after it has started (progressive) and this one which shows how to preload images being added after the slideshow has start.

Good Luck!