Why Artists Should Care About Alt Text
Why Artists Should Care About Alt Text
You’ve probably seen the option to “add alt text” when posting your artwork on social media or your website, but what exactly is it?
What Is Alt Text?
Alt text (short for “alternative text”) is a brief description of an image. It's used by screen readers to help people who are blind or have low vision understand what’s in a picture. It also helps your content get discovered in search engines, meaning it's good for both accessibility and visibility.
Why It Matters for Artists
As artists, our work is visual but that doesn’t mean it should be invisible to people who can’t see it. Writing a short description of your artwork helps everyone appreciate your creations. Plus, thoughtful alt text can help your art show up in more image searches.
How to Add Alt Text on Facebook:
Start by uploading your image as usual.
Click the three dots in the top right corner of the image preview and choose “Edit Alt Text.”
Facebook will auto-generate a description, but it’s better to write your own (e.g., “Watercolor painting of a sunflower field at sunset with soft pink skies.”)
Click Save, then post.
How to Add Alt Text on Instagram:
Upload your image and proceed to the caption screen.
Before you hit “Share,” scroll down and tap More Options.
Under “Accessibility and translation,” tap Write Alt Text.
Enter your description (keep it short but specific).
Tap Done, then share your post!
Alt Text Tips for Artists:
Focus on what’s in the image: colors, subject, mood, style.
Be specific: “Abstract acrylic painting with swirling blue and gold lines” is better than “painting.”
Keep it concise: aim for 1–2 sentences max.
Don’t start your alt text with “Picture of” or “Image of”. Screen readers will already make clear to the user that its an image.
Don’t repeat your caption. If your caption already explains the image, your alt text should still describe it visually. Think about what someone can’t get just from the words in your post.