- Article
- 2 minutes read
- Reviewed August 4, 2026
Image SEO combines discoverability, context, accessibility and performance.
WordPress can generate responsive image markup and metadata, but editorial choices determine whether an image is useful and understandable.
Select the Right Image
Use images that add information, evidence or visual explanation.
Decorative images should not receive misleading descriptions.
Filenames
Use a descriptive filename before upload when practical.
Prefer wordpress-xml-sitemap-example.png over IMG_4829-final2.png.
Alternative Text
Alt text communicates the image’s purpose when it cannot be seen.
- Describe informative content.
- Use empty alt text for decorative images.
- Avoid keyword stuffing.
- Do not repeat the caption unnecessarily.
- Describe the destination when an image is used as a link.
Context and Captions
Place the image close to the relevant discussion. Captions can explain why it matters.
Dimensions and Responsive Output
Provide intrinsic dimensions and use suitable generated image sizes.
WordPress can generate srcset and sizes, but templates must request sensible files.
Performance
Review format, compression, dimensions, lazy loading, hero-image priority, caching and CDN delivery.
Image URLs
Image files must remain accessible to crawlers. CDN rules, signed URLs and hotlink protection can interfere with discovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should alt text include keywords?
Only when they naturally describe the image’s purpose.
Are modern formats always better?
They can reduce size, but quality, browser support and workflow compatibility should be tested.
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