How to Optimize Images for SEO
Images speak a thousand words. With the increasing online competition it is wise to make use of the right strategies. The online competition demands you to be creative and innovative in every way. You will find that no customer likes to read long paragraphs. Images tend to capture great attention and hence it is wise to consider adding images. Many companies often think that once the cropping and sizing of the picture is done and uploaded the work is over. However, there is more to it than you can think. You should know the content you have posted can actually make or break your image. Apart from this, how the image has been uploaded also speaks a lot. It is needed as to gain great popularity in search engines. When an image is uploaded on the site it is wise you know that there are varied ways through which you can be found on these engines. If you are new to the online world you can consider the below mentioned aspects:
Make use of right images –
Your first step for optimizing images for SEO consists of making use of the right ones. You just cannot use any random picture you find online. Ensure the picture you choose goes well with the topic and speaks for the content. You can make use of your own image rather than downloading it from Google. It is seen that gif images are the most considered ones as they tend to attract attention easily.
Preparation of the picture –
This is another step involved in optimization. It is of paramount importance that once the image has been found, you optimize them so that they will be better visible and popular. When optimizing you have to take care of many aspects.
Make use of right file name –
It all begins with offering the right file name. It is wise you make use of relevant keywords that make it easier for customers to locate you.
Scaling –
The next step involves scaling them for effective optimization. The loading speed should be great in order for the image to load faster. One of the best ways to ensure it loads faster is by scaling it to the required size.
Alt text –
You must have seen “alternate text” box when uploading a picture. Do not neglect it, for it is actually your new SEO friend. You cannot expect the search engine to know the main motive of uploading the picture. Make use of ALT text to help understand the images well.
Caption –
Along with the Alt text, make sure you add a caption to your image. In case Google spots the image without a caption you are sure to be in real soup. Captioning helps Google to know about the image. Ensure the caption is short, simple, and more importantly attractive.
The above mentioned tactics will help in great image optimization. Next time you consider adding images to your site, consider the above mentioned aspects. You are a step close to gaining popularity in various search engines.
This article is written by Govind Agarwal. He is an Search Engine Optimization and Social Media Marketing Expert at Submitedgeseo, with over 6 years’ experience in the Web Marketing Techniques.