What is Alt Text?
Alt text (alternative text) is a description of an image that serves two purposes: it helps visually impaired users understand the image through screen readers, and it helps search engines understand and index your images.
Why Alt Text Matters for E-commerce
Google Images drives significant traffic to product pages. Well-written alt text helps your products appear in image search results. Additionally, 15% of the global population has some form of disability — accessible stores reach more customers.
How to Write Good Product Alt Text
Do
- Describe the product specifically: "Red leather crossbody handbag with gold chain strap"
- Include key attributes: color, material, size, style
- Keep it under 125 characters
- Be accurate and honest
Do Not
- Stuff keywords: "bag handbag purse leather bag red bag cheap bag"
- Use "image of" or "photo of" — screen readers already announce it as an image
- Leave alt text empty
- Use the same alt text for every image
Alt Text Templates
Main image: "[Color] [Material] [Product Type] [Key Feature]"
Example: "Navy blue cotton crew neck t-shirt with chest pocket"
Angle shots: "[Product Name] [angle/view]"
Example: "Wireless earbuds charging case side view"
Detail shots: "[Product Name] close-up of [feature]"
Example: "Running shoe close-up of cushioned sole tread pattern"
Platform-Specific Tips
Amazon auto-generates alt text but you can improve it in Seller Central. Shopify lets you edit alt text for each product image. Most platforms support alt text — always fill it in.