When building Pinterest-style grids with Masonry.js, you often display images of varying sizes. This creates a challenge: images may not load instantly, and Masonry relies on knowing the actual size of each grid item to calculate the layout correctly. If Masonry tries to arrange the grid before all images are fully loaded, the layout can break—items may overlap, or large gaps may appear. This is where the imagesLoaded library becomes essential.

imagesLoaded is a small JavaScript library that detects when images inside a container have finished loading. By combining imagesLoaded with Masonry.js, you ensure that the grid layout is only triggered after every image has loaded. This approach guarantees that Masonry calculates positions based on the true dimensions of each image, resulting in a polished and gap-free grid. Without imagesLoaded, layouts can appear broken or shift unexpectedly as images load at different times.

You use imagesLoaded by wrapping your Masonry layout call inside an event that fires after all images are loaded. This way, Masonry waits until it has accurate measurements for every item. This technique is especially important for image-heavy grids, such as photo galleries, portfolios, or blog post listings, where consistent and visually appealing layouts are critical.