Kelsey SmithThere are certain words in the world of online business that can feel like a locked gate: funnels, analytics, algorithms, and the big one, SEO. For many visionaries, “Search Engine Optimization” sounds like a cold, technical language reserved for experts.
I get it. As I’ve been diving deep into the work for a new client, I’ve had a revelation: Basically, you don’t have to learn the whole language at once. You just need to learn the first, most important words.
And for a brand that is as visual as ours, the most powerful place to start is with your images.
I am not an SEO expert. I am a student, right here in the trenches with you. I want to share the simple, profound alchemy I’m learning about turning your beautiful photos into hardworking assets for your brand.
Why Your Images Need a Voice: The Two Pillars of Image SEO
Before we get to the “how,” let’s start with the “why.” Making your images SEO-friendly isn’t just a technical task; it’s an act of radical hospitality for your audience. It boils down to two noble goals:
Accessibility: This is about creating a web that is open to everyone. For visually impaired users who use screen readers, the text you add to your images is what describes the visual world of your brand to them. It ensures your sanctuary has a welcome mat for all.
Searchability: Search engines like Google are brilliant, but they can’t see your images. They read them. By giving your images clear, descriptive text, you are telling Google exactly what they are, making it easier for your ideal people to find you.
The Alchemist’s Toolkit: Alt Text, Description, and Captions
So, how do we give our images a voice? By using three simple tools. As I’ve been updating my new client’s website, I’ve focused on these three pillars:
The Alt Text (Alternative Text)
What it is: A short, descriptive sentence that lives in the backend of your website. It is the single most important piece of image SEO.
Why it’s noble: This is what the screen reader reads aloud, and it’s what Google primarily uses to understand your image.
How to write it: Be descriptive and concise. For example, imagine you’re describing the photo to a friend over the phone. (e.g., For the photo above, the alt text is: “A creative entrepreneur learning SEO basics for images on her laptop in a well-lit sanctuary space.”)
The Description
What it is: A more detailed paragraph that can provide extra context about the image.
Why it’s noble: While less critical for ranking, this can be a place to add more detail and keywords that are relevant to your brand and the specific page the image is on.
How to write it: Think of it as the “behind the scenes” info. You can describe the mood, the setting, or the purpose of the photo in more detail.
The Caption
What it is: The text that appears publicly on the page, right below the image.
Why it’s noble: This is your chance to connect with your reader. The caption’s job isn’t for SEO; rather, it’s for storytelling. It adds a layer of narrative and personality, turning a simple photo into a part of your brand’s story.
How to write it: Speak directly to your Visionary. Add context, ask a question, or share a personal reflection related to the image.
Putting It Into Practice: My Own SEO Journey
As I apply these principles for my clients, I am, of course, doing the same for my own brand. Every image from my recent photoshoot is being uploaded with intention—with carefully crafted alt text and descriptions.
Nonetheless, my goal is to begin the long, steady process of ranking for the services I offer, like brand strategy and creative direction. It’s a journey, and I look forward to seeing how my website will rank over time by applying these small, consistent, sovereign actions.
Finally, it’s not about being perfect from day one. It’s about taking the first step.
Stay Noble.
