The Ultimate Guide to Image Optimization for Websites
Image Optimization for Websites
Before we dive into image improvement details, let’s talk about why it matters. Making images better has a big impact on how fast pages load, which affects how people use your site and where you show up in search results. A slow website can make more people leave —we call this the bounce rate—and this can hurt your search rankings. On the flip side, a site that loads fast keeps people interested and helps your SEO game.
Let’s look at some key ways to make website images better:
1. Change Images to WebP Format
Old formats like JPEG and PNG are often big files. Try using WebP instead. It’s a new image format that gives you good-looking images in much smaller files. You can change your images to WebP without losing quality using tools like Squash.
2. Rename Image Files for SEO
Rename a file before it is uploaded by giving it a descriptive name related to the contents. Don’t name a picture IMG1234.webp; rename it to blue-running-shoes.webp. Search engines are then able to more effectively index this picture. Automation tools, such as Media File Renamer by Meow Apps, are available for doing this.
3. Add Alt Text to All Photos
Alt text provides web accessibility. Likewise, it aids in SEO. Therefore, people unable to see the images can at least have some understanding of what they are, while search engines will decipher the relevance of the image. Have clear, on-subject, and natural-sounding alt text like:
“A blue pair of running shoes on a wooden floor.” Remember: Don’t stuff keywords.
4. Use Related Keywords
Place keywords in the image file name, alt tag, and surrounding content. But don’t abuse it—Google prefers content to sound natural and assist users.
5. Keep Files Under 300 KB
Big images can make your site load slowly, so aim for under 300KB each. You can shrink them using sites like TinyPNG or Squoosh – they make the file size smaller without making the picture look bad.
6. Use Specific and High Quality Images
Stock photos are clichés and will make your website look bland. If at all possible, use unique, high-definition images. In case you need to use stock images, choose those that are not too mainstream or edit them so they have a personalized feel.
Final Thoughts
Just do these steps to make your website faster, better for users, and easier to find on search engines. A speedy website will keep people around, lower the number of folks who leave right away, and help you rank higher, which means more visitors and sales.
Looking for expert guidance to elevate your brand? Connect with a freelance digital marketer in Kochi today and take your business to the next level!