Some very simple yet mostly overlooked aspects of SEO for graphic designers are the proper use of alt text and file names. There are some best practices in regard to these tactics. These elements may seem minor, but they play a significant role in how search engines interpret the content of a website and rank the content.
Let’s start with alt text. This is the text that appears in place of an image if it doesn’t load and is also what screen readers use to describe images to visually impaired users. It’s not only about accessibility here. Alt text is also a key factor in SEO. By including relevant keywords in your alt text, you’re helping search engines understand the context of your images, which in turn boosts your rankings. Just remember to keep it natural and descriptive; keyword stuffing can do more harm than good.
File names are another critical component. Before uploading any image, rename the file to something that describes the content in general terms. For example, instead of sticking with a generic name like “image-xyz.jpg,” change it to something like “donut-logo-business-name-here.jpg.” Separate each word with only hypens. This not only helps with SEO but also makes your files more organized and easier to find later. I include the business name at the end of the file name in order to draw more attention from Google.
Incorporating these small SEO tweaks into the design process can make a big difference in how your work is recognized online.