Foundation · 2 min
What you need to know
What belongs in alt text?
Alt text tells someone using a screen reader what a meaningful image shows. It also gives systems that read the page text about that image. For a product shot, describe the item plainly, such as its type, color, and material or container. A second photo may describe the item beside an everyday object for scale, if that is what it shows.
Do not repeat a list of search phrases or describe a decorative flourish as if it were another product. If the image is purely decorative, check whether it needs empty alt text instead.
Do filenames matter?
A descriptive file name, such as one that gives the product type and color, tells you what the photo is, and gives search systems a small clue. Name a photo descriptively before uploading instead of leaving a camera code. Do not rename files and break published image URLs without a reason.
The visible product description still needs to explain the item. A filename cannot replace product details.
How do you keep images fast?
Check your store’s recommended file type and the size actually shown on the page. Check the product page on a phone and make sure the images are sharp without being unnecessarily large. Also check that the main photo appears when the page loads, and that zoom still shows useful detail.
Do not chase a single image size for every theme. Test the actual layout and loading behavior.
Foundation · 2 min
Frequently asked questions
Should alt text include the product name?
Include it when the name helps describe what the image shows. Keep the description natural and accurate.
Should every gallery photo use identical alt text?
No. Describe what is different or useful about each meaningful view.