Decoding Alt Text: A Photographer's Guide to Enhancing Accessibility
HEY GOOGLE! WHY CANT YOU SEE ME?
In the intricate realm of photography, crafting visually stunning images is an art. Yet, there's more to the artistry than meets the eye. Today, we delve into the often-overlooked aspect of accessibility—Alt Text. Join us on a journey to understand how Alt Text can transform not only the accessibility of your work but also the overall user experience.
Make it stand out
“One way to think of alternative text is to think about how you would read the page containing the image to someone over the phone, without mentioning that there is an image present. Whatever you say instead of the image is typically a good start for writing the alternative text.“
Section 1: Unraveling Alt Text Basics
Alt Text, or alternative text, is a brief description embedded within the HTML code of an image. Its purpose is to convey the content and meaning of the image for individuals who may not be able to perceive it visually. For photographers, Alt Text is a powerful tool that opens the door to a broader audience, including those with visual impairments or using assistive technologies.
Section 2: Why Alt Text Matters for Photographers
Inclusive Reach: Alt Text makes your visual content accessible to everyone, breaking down barriers for individuals with visual impairments.
SEO Boost: Search engines rely on Alt Text to understand and index your images, enhancing your overall SEO strategy.
Social Media Visibility: When shared on platforms like Instagram, Alt Text provides context and engages a wider audience.
Section 3: Crafting Effective Alt Text
Be Descriptive: Aim for clear and concise descriptions that capture the essence of the image.
Include Key Details: Highlight important elements, such as subjects, colors, and mood, to provide a comprehensive understanding.
Avoid Redundancy: If the surrounding text already describes the image, use Alt Text to supplement rather than repeat.
Section 4: Alt Text Best Practices for Different Photography Styles
Portrait Photography: Focus on facial expressions, emotions, and key elements of the composition.
Landscape Photography: Describe the scene, prominent features, and the overall atmosphere.
Product Photography: Highlight product details, colors, and any unique selling points.
Elevating Your Photography through Inclusivity
In the evolving landscape of digital content, photographers hold the key to fostering inclusivity. By incorporating thoughtful Alt Text, you not only broaden your audience but also contribute to a more accessible and welcoming online space. Embrace the power of Alt Text to make your visual narratives resonate with everyone.
Good: Sleeping baby in a Basket wrapped up.
Better: Neutral-toned newborn photoshoot with the baby wrapped in white and placed in a box.
Optimized: Baby posed in a box using neutral colour wrap and layers at the Gold Coast Newborn Studio.
Good: Pregnant woman wearing a beige ruffle dress.
Better: Maternity portrait in a long ruffle beige robe outside in the bush at golden hour sunset.
Optimized: Gold Coast maternity session with a bush glam theme.
Good: A woman in lingerie closes her eyes and Tilts her head backward.
Better: Client poses away from the light in the studio in a black lace bodysuit with green palm leaves on a black backdrop in the background.
Optimized: A woman in Black lingerie poses in front of a black backdrop with palm leaves in the Gold Coast Boudoir studio.
As photographers, our images tell stories. Let's ensure these stories are accessible to all. By mastering the art of Alt Text, we embark on a journey of inclusion, one image at a time.
Share your thoughts on Alt Text in the comments below and let's spark a conversation on the intersection of photography and accessibility!