Image Optimization for the Web

The Biggest Easy Win

On most sites, images make up the bulk of the page weight. Optimizing them is the fastest way to a quicker, better-ranking site — and it's largely a one-time effort.

The Core Techniques

• **Resize before upload** — don't ship a 4000px image into a 600px slot
• **Use modern formats** like WebP or AVIF for smaller files
• **Compress** to cut file size with little visible loss
• **Lazy-load** images below the fold so they load only when needed

Don't Forget Alt Text

Descriptive alt text helps screen readers and gives search engines context. It's good for accessibility and SEO at the same time.

Serve the Right Size

A phone doesn't need a desktop-sized image. Responsive images deliver an appropriately sized file for each device, saving data and time.

Let Tools Help

Modern frameworks and image services can resize, convert, and compress automatically. Set it up once and every future image is optimized without extra thought.