Header image cropping error, SD and Imagick not available.

Hey all, I’m fairly new to WP.org, really just started developing a page through a class assignment I currently have. I decided to make this post because, as a fairly new beginner, even through searching Google and the WP forums I didn’t find a solution that would conclusively solve my issue.

As for background, the issue started when after creating the site, updating the theme, and then trying to select and crop the chosen header image from the media library. I received the message: “header.jpg There has been an error cropping your image.” Of course I exausted the normal resources of Google and subsequent forum searches, which led me to the understanding that it most likely had to do with the issue of a missing GD or imagick module. However, I still couldn’t find out how to conclusively figure out which was missing or which one I needed. Also, most solutions seemed to be involving issues concerning users that didn’t seem to be using the same setup as me.

So, as for anyone who may be on the same beginners level as I am, and hopefully for anyone who can help successfully resolve the issue, here are some things that brought a little clarification to the issue.

I am using a localhost database host. MySQL is the database. Web Server is Apache 2 and my PHP version is 8.0.2.

I looked through the forums and search results saying that a missing or disabled GD/imagick library are the most likely causes. But, I wasn’t sure on how to establish this as a cause. Also there were other fixes suggested, such as outdated PHP.

I found clarification in going to my sitehealth tool. It stated there that I had 1 critical issue, of which was listed:
“One or more required modules are missing

PHP modules perform most of the tasks on the server that make your site run. Any changes to these must be made by your server administrator.

The WordPress Hosting Team maintains a list of those modules, both recommended and required, in the team handbook (opens in a new tab).

Warning The optional module, imagick, is not installed, or has been disabled.
Error The required module, gd, is not installed, or has been disabled.”

After consulting the suggested link for the Team Handbook, under the PHP section I noticed that it states:
“When it comes to PHP, WordPress works best with the following versions:

PHP 7.4.x
PHP 7.3.x
PHP 7.2.x”
And lists imagick and GD as extensions but gives no immediate reference on how to ensure they are properly installed or enabled.

So, considering the above information. Should I install the version PHP 7.4.x or what steps do I take to ensure that the GD/imagick libraries are installed and enabled.

I realize this is a lengthy post, but I am hoping that if the solution is clearly stated and resolved, it may help many others as well.

Thank you all

• This topic was modified 4 years, 1 month ago by mooregrimm.