SEO Tagging Images
Google Image Search
Google
Image Search has
85% of all image searches within the UK. This is 4.42% of all searches
within the UK. With the emergence of Google Integrated search it is now
more important to optimise images with the relevant tags and file
names. These best practices in turn will also improve
accessibility for visually impaired users.
Image File Names
It is important to use descriptive image file names for search engines
spiders. E.g. search-engine-optimisation.jpg. Use the
following
best practice when naming an image online:
- Separate each individual word by a hyphen (not an underline)
- Include the brand name in the file name
- Include the relevant keyword in the file name e.g. Search
An example would be:
http://www.yourdomain.co.uk/images/search23.jpg
Change the file name to:
http://www.yourdomain.co.uk/images/search-engine-optimisation.jpg
Image Alt Tags
Ensure all graphics/images/banners have a sufficient alt tag. Use the
following best practice:
- Ensure keywords are present in alt tags.
- Include the brand name if possible
- Alt tags can contain up to 150 characters
- But you can also use <LONGDESC tag> for longer tags.
- The HTML code for an alt tag is as follows:
<img src="http://www.yourdomain.co.uk/images/search-engine-optimisation.jpg" alt="Search engine optimisation consultancy"></a>
