Table of Contents
Problem Description #
When uploading media to a post that has no title (or in a context without a post), and using rename rules based on post title, the resulting filename may end up blank or fall back unpredictably leading to “empty filename on upload” issues.
Common symptoms #
- New uploads result in blank or default (unnamed) filenames. Reported by users in support forum or reviews. WordPress.org
- Media file appears in library but cannot be accessed or shows missing/invalid URL.
Cause #
If rename rules depend on {post_title} but the upload context lacks a post title (e.g. direct Media Library upload, or post is auto‑draft, or title empty), plugin may fail to generate a valid filename.
Solution (step‑by‑step) #
- In settings → rename rules, avoid using only {post_title} unless you’re sure every upload is attached to a post with a valid title.
- Use fallback tokens such as {filename} or include date in filename structure to avoid blank names. Plugin update 2.6.0 added option to fallback to original filename when post title is empty. WPFactory
- After adjusting rules, save settings and test with a media upload directly via Media Library (not attached to any post) to verify correct naming.
- If site uses auto-import or external upload method, make sure rename rules are compatible with that workflow (see Article 1).
Prerequisites #
- Plugin version 2.6.0 or newer (which supports fallback filename option). WPFactory
Additional Notes #
- Consider including date and original file name in naming structure for safer output.
Document naming pattern in site style guide to maintain consistency.
