Making Images Accessible
Why image accessibility matters—and how to do it right
Images are a powerful part of digital communication, but if they aren't made accessible, they can exclude people who use screen readers, have low vision, or rely on text-based browsers. The good news: making images accessible is simple and just takes a few extra seconds.
What Is Alt Text
Alt text (alternative text) is a short description of an image that:
- Explains what is shown and why it matters
- Is read aloud by screen readers for people who can’t see the image
- Replaces the image if it fails to load
You should add alt text to every image unless the image is purely decorative (in which case it should be marked as decorative or left blank appropriately).
Alt text can help everyone
If there are internet issues and an image fails to load, the alt text is displayed.
Example of a digital image that loaded correctly
Example of a digital image that did not load correctly and does not have alt text
Example of a digital image that did not load correctly and does have alt text
Good Alt Text Tips
- Keep it short and specific (1–2 sentences max)
- Describe only what’s essential to understanding the content
- Don’t say “Image of…”—just describe what it shows
- If text appears in the image, include that text in the alt description or main body content
Examples:
Good Alt Text: a nutritional services team member standing in front of a cafeteria
Bad Alt Text: a man
Good Alt Text: a graduate cheers on stage while holding his diploma
Bad Alt Text: a student graduates
Good Alt Text: a principal gives a high five to a student on the playground
Bad Alt Text: People outside
Good Alt Text: student raises hand in a full classroom with text: Board of Education Meeting Today
Bad Alt Text: Classroom picture
How to Add Alt Text in Common Tools
Gmail
- Click on the image in your email message
- Select "Edit Alt Text"
Google Docs / Slides
- Right-click the image
- Choose "Alt text"
- Fill in the description field
- Watch a 60-second Google Docs Alt Text demo video on YouTube
Microsoft Word / PowerPoint
- Right-click the image
- Select "View Alt Text"
- If available, ensure the AI generated Alt-text is accurate or write your own brief, helpful description
- Watch a 60-second Microsoft Word Alt Text demo video on YouTube
Webpages (e.g., in Finalsite or Google Sites)
- Look for an "Alt text" field in the image upload or settings area
- Some platforms automatically ask for it—fill it in before publishing
Adding Alt Text in Finalsite
In the Image Properties settings, find the Alternative text field and input your image description.
Social Media Platforms
- Facebook: Before or after uploading, click “Edit Photo” > “Alt Text”
- Instagram: Before posting, tap “Advanced Settings” > “Write Alt Text”
- Twitter/X: Tap the image, then “+ALT” to add alt text before posting
Avoid Text-Only Images
Images that contain only text (like many flyers) are not accessible unless the same information is also included in the body of your post, email, or web page. Screen readers can't interpret text embedded in an image unless it's added manually in the alt text or elsewhere.
Always provide event details and important info in plain text.
Decorative Images
If an image is purely decorative (e.g., a border or background that doesn’t convey content), it can be marked as decorative or left with a blank alt attribute so screen readers skip it.
