Image SEO Checklist: Rank Higher with Properly Optimized Visuals

Images make up the majority of a typical web page's weight. Optimizing them improves Core Web Vitals, accessibility and Google Image search visibility — all major ranking factors.

1. Use descriptive filenames

Rename IMG_2031.jpg to red-leather-handbag.jpg before uploading. Search engines read filenames as ranking signals.

2. Always include alt text

Alt text helps screen readers and gives Google context. Describe the image naturally, including a relevant keyword once.

3. Resize before upload

Don't ship a 4000-pixel-wide photo to a 800-pixel container. Use a tool like our image resizer to deliver exactly what's needed.

4. Compress without quality loss

Quality 70–80 in JPEG is usually visually identical to 100 but 60% lighter. Try our image compressor.

5. Serve modern formats

WebP is supported in every modern browser and is 25–35% smaller than JPEG at the same quality. AVIF goes even further.

6. Lazy-load below the fold

Add loading="lazy" to non-critical images. Browsers will only load them as the user scrolls.

Run through this checklist before publishing every post, and you'll see steady improvements in load times and image rankings.