Accessibility
Can everyone ‘see’ your images?”
Good design isn’t just about what looks great — it’s also about what’s understood* Many websites overlook how people read images using assistive technology like screen readers. That one missed detail can quietly shut out a whole group of potential users.
The issue
Images without proper alt text make your website invisible to some users.
For someone using a screen reader, your product photo, infographic, or testimonial image might not even exist if you haven’t described it. Screen readers rely on alternative text (alt text) to speak what the image shows or why it matters.
Without it, key parts of your message disappear. Imagine describing your brand story, but half the visuals never make it into the conversation. That’s what happens when alt text is missing.
When alt text is done wrong, like writing an “image of a person smiling,” it adds clutter instead of clarity. The goal isn’t to label pictures but to describe their purpose and meaning.
The solution
Accessibility isn’t just a “nice to have.”
It’s a sign of respect — and good business. When your site works for people with disabilities, it also works better for everyone: faster loading, better SEO, more explicit content, and stronger trust.
Describe the purpose, not the pixels.
Alt text isn’t for visual detail — it’s for understanding.
Say what the image contributes to the page.
Example: Instead of “photo of a phone on a table,” say “Mobile app showing a simple 2-step signup.”
Skip the obvious.
Avoid phrases like “image of…” or “picture showing…”
Screen readers already announce it’s an image — write what’s needed.
Decorative images? Keep it silent.
If an image is just there for decoration or spacing, leave the alt text empty: alt=""
That tells screen readers to skip it and keeps focus where it matters.
Keep it short and purposeful.
Alt text should be concise — about one short sentence that conveys intent. The goal is clarity, not a transcript of the image.
Make it part of your process.
Include alt text writing in your content checklist or design handoff. It’s not just a dev task — it’s part of creating inclusive experiences.
View more UX tips at: www.mugs.studio/uxtips
Curious to see more?
Browse all our UX showcases for real-world ideas and solutions.
