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Not using alt tags for decorative images?

Image & Video Optimization
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  • AliMac26
    AliMac26 last edited by Jan 31, 2018, 4:18 PM

    Hi everyone,

    My coworker recently stumbled across this article that instructs you to not to alt text for "decorative images" as you might get penalized you for over optimization

    https://www.shopify.com/blog/7412852-10-must-know-image-optimization-tips

    Has anyone heard of this or have any thoughts?

    1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
    • AliMac26
      AliMac26 last edited by Feb 1, 2018, 2:11 PM Feb 1, 2018, 2:11 PM

      Thank you!

      1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
      • WebElaine
        WebElaine last edited by Jan 31, 2018, 5:50 PM Jan 31, 2018, 5:50 PM

        It's more of an accessibility issue than an SEO issue. If your visitor were using a screen reader, would it add any value for them to hear the alt text? If so, keep it. If instead you're describing "curly swash with a heart" and it has no bearing at all on actual content, leave it blank. Generally speaking, things that improve your accessibility are good for SEO.

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