🚀 Performance: Image Optimization Pipeline (Edge Compression)

[shard-c6]

Goal

Reduce bandwidth usage and improve load times by implementing an automated image optimization pipeline.

Tasks

• Implement middleware to convert uploaded identification photos to WebP format.
• Add client-side image compression before uploading to the consultant service.
• Integrate with a CDN (e.g., Cloudinary or Vercel Image Optimization) for serving plant assets.
• Implement lazy loading for all heavy botanical imagery.