Images and Search Engine Optimization
Search engines are increasingly integrating their image search results with their traditional search findings. You can take advantage of that by optimizing your images. Here are five easy steps to image optimization:
1. Allow spiders from the search engines access to your images folder. Name your images with a relevant keyword, and make sure you have optimized alt text for each of your images. Use images that are sharp, compressed, and quick-loading
2. Utilize Flickr. Post all of your photos to Flickr. Give them tags and a description, and place them in thematic sets. Add your photos to relevant groups, and be sure to link all of your Flickr pages to your website, using keywords or key phrases in your anchor text. Allow your pictures to be viewed by the public.
3. Add your images to Like.com. This brand spanking new search engine allows users to search for products based on their image. E-commerce sites can submit their images to be included in the database.
4. Opt-in to Google’s Enhanced Image Search. Google will utilize tools such as their Image Labeler to aid in the search quality and indexing of your images. You can opt-out at any time.
5. Be creative and comprehensive. If your restaurant has unique antique or collectible pieces, take a picture of it and post it on your site. You could gain customers who love antiques. Use every inch of your imagination and think outside the box. Your conversion rates could increase as a result. A word of caution: Steer clear of using a celebrity’s image, even if they have visited your store or restaurant. You could be sued if you don’t have their written consent.
1. Allow spiders from the search engines access to your images folder. Name your images with a relevant keyword, and make sure you have optimized alt text for each of your images. Use images that are sharp, compressed, and quick-loading
2. Utilize Flickr. Post all of your photos to Flickr. Give them tags and a description, and place them in thematic sets. Add your photos to relevant groups, and be sure to link all of your Flickr pages to your website, using keywords or key phrases in your anchor text. Allow your pictures to be viewed by the public.
3. Add your images to Like.com. This brand spanking new search engine allows users to search for products based on their image. E-commerce sites can submit their images to be included in the database.
4. Opt-in to Google’s Enhanced Image Search. Google will utilize tools such as their Image Labeler to aid in the search quality and indexing of your images. You can opt-out at any time.
5. Be creative and comprehensive. If your restaurant has unique antique or collectible pieces, take a picture of it and post it on your site. You could gain customers who love antiques. Use every inch of your imagination and think outside the box. Your conversion rates could increase as a result. A word of caution: Steer clear of using a celebrity’s image, even if they have visited your store or restaurant. You could be sued if you don’t have their written consent.
