upload larger icon files...not crazy just a little bit

[every9seconds]

Title
upload larger icon files...not crazy just a little bit

Short, concise description of the idea
Mainly, its hard to get a GIF file under 40KB even when its under 100x100 pixels

Full description of the idea
Recently I tried to upload a couple of very nice icons but I got this message: The GIF image you uploaded is too large. GIF file size cannot

Comments

[scaryjeff]

I would think that the limits are there for a reason (such as load on the server) so I don't think LJ will just increase the limit. However, the idea of trading userpic slots for a larger limit is something I like.

Perhaps a system where each userpic slot counts for 40Kb, and if you want to upload a larger image, you can, but it will use more of your userpic allowance. So your 94Kb image would use 3 of your userpic allowance, etc.

That keeps everyone happy. LJ still has the size limits (sort of) and there isn't suddenly going to be lots of extra storage needed, and users can upload larger userpics.

I do think an upper limit will be needed though (perhaps no more than 3 slots per image or something) because otherwise you'll get people uploading stupidly large files which will cause havoc for people not on a faster connection.

[intrepia]

This sounds like a great compromise solution.

[ursamajor]

I'd be good with this compromise. +1.

[lassarina]

I find this reasonable. +1

[nakeisha]

This sounds like a reasonable compromise to me too.

[lied_ohne_worte]

Good idea - however, I fear that this will make people who upload 8KB userpics want to upload 5 userpics in one slot, as their pics are smaller.

The radical solution would probably be to get rid of userpic slots altogether and just define a certain amount of storage space, but that would entirely change LJ's userpic system.

[ahtnamas]

I second this; however much more time it may take to get there. +1

[thevelvetsun]

I agree!

[dandelion]

An upper limit would definitely be needed - right now, I could have a userpic of 4.1mb if I wanted otherwise.

[azurelunatic]

Ow. Yes.

[harrywells]

+1

[shadowed_light]

Wonderful idea!

The '3-icon-allowance' cap (120Kb) is more than reasonable. I've also run into the problem of having an icon exceed the 40Kb allowance, but I'd be more than happy to trade some of my unused userpic space to cover larger files.

After all, we've paid for the space. Why not put it to good use?

[ahtnamas]

This definitely sounds good +1

[uniquelyevil]

OMG LETS MAKE THIS HAPPEN!

I just spent all night excitedly working on a hilarious icon and I can't even use it. I'm crushed. ;_;