How to Optimize Your Website Images for SEO (The Complete Guide)

How to Optimize Images for SEO

Why images matter for SEO

• Images are the #1 cause of slow page speed
• Google Images drives significant traffic
• Alt text helps Google understand your content
• Optimized images improve Core Web Vitals

Step 1: Choose the right format

• JPEG for photos
• PNG for graphics with transparency
• WebP for everything (smaller file size, supported everywhere now)

Step 2: Compress before uploading

Use TinyPNG.com (free) or Squoosh.app (free). Aim for under 100KB per image.

Step 3: Use descriptive filenames

Not 'IMG_4829.jpg.' Use 'austin-plumber-repairing-water-heater.jpg.'

Step 4: Add alt text to every image

Describe what's in the image. Include keywords naturally. 'Professional plumber repairing a water heater in Austin, TX.'

Step 5: Specify image dimensions

Add width and height attributes. This prevents layout shifts (a Core Web Vital).

Step 6: Use responsive images

Use srcset to serve different image sizes for mobile and desktop.

Step 7: Create an image sitemap

Help Google discover your images by including them in your sitemap.

Run a free audit and see how your images are affecting your SEO.