How to Optimize Images for Better Search Engine Rankings in SEO?

Image optimization is one of the most neglected parts in SEO. Every SEO webmaster needs to follow a series of image optimization tactics to get favorable results. Some of these are enlisted below:

1. Go for clear and descriptive file names: First and the foremost, one must aim to make the image file names simple and easy to be comprehended by Google. Let’s think it from the perspective of Google, an image which is titled as Image01.jpeg is difficult to be traced as compared to an image which has a specific tag name. So, it is advised to appoint a relevant name to such an image in line with content given on the web page. This process works on optimizing images for SEO and drop more clues for Google to figure out what a site is about.
2. Make use of keyword-rich Alt Text: Adding alt text to the image after deciding on what type of image needs to be used. Additionally one must add the file name to every image on the website for SEO. Alt text refers to a text alternative that a web browser fails to render thus it works in favor of images being tracked by SEO. For webmasters, one wants to take advantage of adding a detail description and teaming them up with keyword-rich alt text to enhance the likelihood of click-through-rates for the users.
3. Context is important: If possible, a user must ensure that images are placed in close proximity to the relevant text to endow clarity to the search engines. Search engines work on assessing image positioning on the relevant page along with noticing the content placed around the same which works on dissecting the important information. It also gives clarity on subject matter related to image.
4. Monitoring the page load times: Webmasters are advised to use the “Site Speed” tool featured in the Google Analytics to reap advantage. This helps in assessing as to how each page is performing as compared to the site average. It helps in unveiling if the image used is of a heavy size. If a page is taking between 3 and 5 seconds to load, it stands optimized.
5. Minimize the files size of heavy images: As a basic advice, webmasters must crop the images as per the size of the page on which it is placed. For example, if the page is 970 px wide, resize the image according to the same. It also helps in reducing the color depth till the lowest acceptable level.
6. Always use commonly supported file types: Webmasters are recommended to use JPEG which has become the first choice, keeping the PNG as a secondary choice. Adding to the extension along with filename match in combination with file type (Ex: .jpeg or .png).

Additionally you can submit a image sitemap and submit this to webmaster.  Regular check for indexed images from your website. Ranking in image search also help.Following up these basic tips help in optimizing image files in the SEO. Always remember that user experience stand as superior and images must be optimized for bettering the same.

About us: Amici is leading SEO service provider. Images are important to attract visitors and providing information quickly ( inforgraphics ,charts etc). By following best practices, we able to improve search presence of numerous clients.