This is a recent small change by Google to image SEO techniques. The update is relatively small but brings quite significant changes in terms of image SEO, specifically the Using HTML image elements to embed images section.
- Google Image SEO Update
This update is specifically changed in the document as follows:
Before
“Google parses HTML “img” elements (even if they are included in other elements such as image elements), but not CSS images.”
Present
“Google can find images in the “src” attribute of an “img” element (even if it is a child of other elements, such as a picture element). Google does not index CSS images.”
How does it impact SEO?
- Google has made it clear that finding and processing images relies heavily on the “src” attribute of the “img” element. This highlights the importance of ensuring that your images are always embedded via “img” elements with the correct and accessible “src” attribute.
- By using standard HTML elements like “img” and “picture” it will make it easier for Google to crawl and thereby index images. This also means improved image visibility in Google image search results.
- Google not indexing CSS images will result in Google not crawling and indexing them. Therefore, images important for SEO should not be embedded via CSS but should use standard HTML elements.
These changes may not be too big, but they can impact the SEO strategies of webmasters and SEO experts. Please note the update.
