Maximize photo images for search engine optimization
Fall in Wisconsin
Wisconsin entrepreneurs and Wisconsin business owners already wear many hats, are pulled in every direction, work non-stop, put out fires, pay bills, and manage payroll all in an average day of work. The added responsibility to ensure that the business is found in local search is not just another task, but a critical one for the survival and successful longevity of the endeavor.
There are two ways to label your images: In the context of search engine optimization, most people seem to “get” the importance of keywords and links but images are often overlooked. I’m not just referencing images on the company website, but also those used for social media posts, content, and just about anything that can be posted and shared online. Labeling your images can be accomplished by using “alt text,” (alternative text), and/or “image title.” Both are considered ‘tags.’ Depending upon the browser you’re using, you’ll likely to see one or the other when ‘hoovering’ over a picture. In regards to their purpose, however, these two labeling actions are not created equal when attempting to optimize for better Google Search Results.
Picture Titles vs Alt Text for Images: Adding an image title is a simple task, usually found through basic image display settings. Just as it sounds, it’s basically just a label that’s relevant, short, and catchy. An image text is meant primarily for visitors.
Alt text or alternate text is an attribute added to an image tag in HTML and is more important for crawlers. Depending where you’re placing your image, you may need to select the “gear” logo or “advanced image settings” drop-down. After completion, your “alt text,” will show inside the image box outline when the image can’t be displayed. It helps search engines understand what your image pertains to. Alternate text is also very helpful in case images on a page cannot be found, or if someone has chosen to disable images on their browsers. Without it, your photo may be seen as an empty box icon. (Not ideal.) In addition, Google can’t see your photo, but it can see your alt text!
Image Tagging Best Practices: If you’re still confused about how to tag your images to provide the most results, do both! Use just a couple of keywords, keep them short and sweet. Adding a title and alt text to your images will help search engines “read” them and add value to your efforts. It never hurts to include a title for those looking at the image, and an alt text for crawlers indexing the image.
For more information, digital strategies and services for entrepreneurs and business owners, visit The Leaning Tree Marketing website, and follow the links below.
Where to find royalty free stock images online
Google guidelines to help your site appear in search results.
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