Did you know that image optimization is one of the most important aspects of SEO? If you don’t, then you’re in for a treat!
This article will discuss all the remarkable tips you need to know about image optimization for SEO. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Define The Size Of Images
Think of it like this; if you have a large image, it will take longer for the image to load. And we all know that users don’t like to wait for images to load.
Studies have shown that users will likely leave a website if the pictures take too long to load.
So, one of the best things you can do is define your image’s size. This way, you can control how long it takes for the image to load. Remember, the smaller the image, the faster it will load.
Choose The Right Format
When it comes to image format, there are three main types: JPEG, PNG, and GIF. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages.
- JPEG is the most popular image format because it can be compressed to a smaller size without losing quality. However, JPEG images are not good for images with text because the text can become fuzzy.
- PNG is the best image format for images with text because the quality of the image will not be compromised when it’s compressed. However, PNG images are usually larger than JPEG images.
- GIF is the best image format for animated images. However, GIF images can only be used for photos with a limited number of colors.
Choosing the proper image format is essential because it can affect the image’s quality and the picture size.
Write Alt Text
Without alt text, an image is just an image. But with alt text, an image becomes so much more. Alt text is used to describe an image.
Writing alt text is crucial because it can help improve the SEO of an image. When writing alt text, describe the image as accurately as possible.
There are two types of alt text: descriptive alt text and keyword alt text. Descriptive alt text is used to describe the image. Keyword alt text is used to include keywords that are related to the image.
Use Image Sitemaps
An image sitemap is a sitemap that contains information about the images on a website.
Image sitemaps are essential because they can help search engines find the images on a website.
To create an image sitemap, you need to use a sitemap generator. Once you have the image sitemap, you must submit it to the search engines.
Ensure That Your Text Complements The Images
When choosing a file name for an image, be sure to choose a descriptive file name that includes keywords. For example, if you have an image of a cat, the file name should be “cat.jpg” or “cat-picture.jpg.”. If you have an image of a dog, the file name should be “dog.jpg” or “dog-picture.jpg.”. The file name is essential because it can help improve the SEO of an image.
Use Image Compression
Image compression is the process of reducing the file size of an image without losing quality. Image compression is necessary because it can help reduce the load time of a website. There are many image compression tools that you can use. With image compression, you can reduce the file size of an image without losing quality.
Use Responsive Images
Responsive images are images that can be displayed on any device. Responsive images are important because they can help improve the SEO of a website.
To create responsive images, you need to use the srcset attribute.
The srcset attribute allows you to specify multiple images. Each image has a different width. The browser will choose the image that best fits the device.
Use Lazy Loading
Lazy loading is a process of loading images only when they are needed. Exciting, huh? It is essential because it can help improve the SEO of a website. With lazy loading, images are only loaded when visible on the screen. This can help improve the load time of a website.
Create Unique Images
Who wants copyright claims? Not me! So, I’m sure you don’t want that either. You can avoid copyright claims by creating unique images. There are many ways to create unique images.
You can use your photos, create infographics, or use free stock photos. When using free stock photos, read the terms of use.
Some free stock photo sites require you to give credit to the photographer, while others don’t.
Image Optimization SEO Correlation With Rankings
It has been proven that image optimization correlates with rankings. In other words, if you have better images on your website, you will likely rank higher on search engines. This is because images can help improve the user experience on your website.
And when users have a better experience on your website, they’re more likely to stay longer and visit more pages. This ultimately leads to a lower bounce rate and higher search engine rankings. So, to improve your image optimization for SEO, focus on the user experience.