tool-webp-converter

A Python tool for optimal WebP image compression that automatically chooses between lossless and lossy compression to achieve the smallest file size.

Why WebP?

WebP is a modern image format developed by Google that provides superior compression for images on the web. It offers:

• Better compression: 25-35% smaller file sizes compared to JPEG and PNG
• Lossless and lossy compression: Choose the best compression method for your needs
• Transparency support: Like PNG, but with better compression
• Animation support: Similar to GIF but with much smaller file sizes
• Wide browser support: Supported by all modern browsers

Installation

Install the package from PyPI:

pip install tool-webp-converter

Usage

The tool provides a command-line interface for converting images to WebP format. It automatically tests both lossless and lossy compression and saves the smaller file.

Basic Usage

Convert a single image:

webp-converter image.jpg

Convert all images in a directory:

webp-converter /path/to/images/

Command Line Options

webp-converter [OPTIONS] INPUT_PATH

Arguments:

• INPUT_PATH: Path to the input image file or directory

Options:

• -o, --output-dir PATH: Output directory (defaults to input file directory)
• -q, --quality INTEGER: Quality for lossy compression (1-100, default: 80)
• -v, --verbose: Enable verbose logging
• -r, --recursive: Process directories recursively

Examples

Convert a single image with custom quality:

webp-converter photo.jpg --quality 90

Convert all images in a directory to a specific output folder:

webp-converter /path/to/images/ --output-dir /path/to/output/

Process a directory recursively (including subdirectories):

webp-converter /path/to/images/ --recursive

Supported Formats

The tool supports the following input formats:

• JPEG (.jpg, .jpeg)
• PNG (.png)
• BMP (.bmp)
• TIFF (.tiff, .tif)
• GIF (.gif)
• WebP (.webp)

How It Works

1. Dual Compression: The tool creates both lossless and lossy WebP versions
2. Automatic Selection: It automatically saves the smaller file
3. Quality Control: You can adjust the quality for lossy compression (1-100)
4. Batch Processing: Process single files or entire directories
5. Recursive Support: Optionally process subdirectories

Output

The tool provides detailed feedback including:

• Compression statistics (original vs compressed size)
• Percentage reduction achieved
• Total space saved for batch operations
• Error reporting for failed conversions

Development

This project uses Poetry for dependency management. To set up the development environment:

# Install dependencies
poetry install

# Activate virtual environment
poetry shell

# Run the tool
python -m tool_webp_converter.cli image.jpg