Outlook 2007 not rendering table background image

HTML & CSS
1

Hi all,

I have composed a email template using traditional table based html email template with inline style sheet. All the mail client loads images perfectly but only in outlook 2007 table background image doesn’t load. Can any one suggest me how could I insert a table background image so that on top of that I can write some text.

Thanks

2

Some clients, like Outlook 7 & 10, don’t support CSS background images, as you can see here:

Guide to CSS support in email - Articles & Tips - Campaign Monitor

You may, however, be able to do something like

<table background="image.gif"> </table>

I’m not sure, but it’s worth a try.

(Of course, it’s dirty and outdated … but then that perfectly describes HTML email anyway. :slight_smile: )

3

Background images should be avoided at all costs in eDM’s because of inconsistent rendering engines that email clients use. For instance Outlook uses Word as it’s engine there for a lot of what you can normally use in HTML won’t work because Word is a text processor not a HTML parser.

Instead what I suggest you do is avoid gradients and images as such and use solid colors as in the long run you will save yourself a lot of headaches and frustration.

4

Agreed. It’s just not worth it.

5

I came up with the background image fix for Outlook 2007/2010 over a year ago, and it works across all email clients.

You can find the details here: Please test this Outlook 2007/2010 background image solution. — Campaign Monitor Forums

I code anywhere from 5 to 8 emails a day for some of the largest global marketing firms - I can tell you right now that it’s MORE than worth it.