Cloudinary Client Media Pipeline Setup (Onboarding)

Cloudinary Client Media Pipeline Setup (Onboarding)

1. 01

   Create a new Cloudinary account or log in to the existing one.

   Navigate to the Cloudinary Console and select the account you will use for the client. If this is a new client, consider creating a separate sub-account under your main account to isolate their media assets and transformations.

2. 02

   Configure upload presets in the Settings > Upload area.

   Define a preset that includes folder structure (e.g., /client-name/product-images), allowed formats, and automatic tagging. This preset will be referenced in the upload API calls or the upload widget.

3. 03

   Set up the client's asset library folder structure in the Media Library.

   Create top-level folders for raw uploads, transformed assets, and archived files. This keeps the client's media organized and makes it easier to apply transformations and manage access.

4. 04

   Enable AI-powered auto-tagging and metadata extraction for the client's assets.

   In the Media Library, select the client's folders and enable auto-tagging. This uses Cloudinary's AI to add searchable tags and metadata, which speeds up asset retrieval and supports automated workflows.

5. 05

   Create a transformation preset for responsive images.

   In the Transformation Builder, define a named transformation that includes width, height, crop (e.g., fill), and quality settings. This preset can be applied via URL or API to ensure consistent, optimized delivery across devices.

6. 06

   Integrate Cloudinary with the client's CMS or e-commerce platform.

   Use the native integration for Shopify, WordPress, or Contentful. Install the Cloudinary plugin, connect the account, and map the upload preset and transformation presets to the platform's media fields.

7. 07

   Set up a MediaFlows automation for common tasks.

   In the Automation section, create a MediaFlow that triggers on upload to apply a watermark, generate a thumbnail, and send a notification. This reduces manual steps and ensures brand consistency.

8. 08

   Test the delivery URL and verify performance.

   Use the Cloudinary Console's Media Explorer to preview a transformed image. Check the delivery URL for the correct transformation parameters and confirm that the CDN serves the asset quickly. Document the URL pattern for the client's developer.