(Lesson 1) Image Filenames That Rank and Stay Organized
Michael MitchellHow-To & More · SEO Naming
Image Filenames That Rank and Stay Organized
Turn raw exports into SEO assets in minutes
If your images are named IMG-4032.jpg, you’re throwing away free SEO. Filenames get read, indexed, and reused across the web (Pinterest saves, downloads, press kits). Your goal is a filename that’s clear to both humans and Google — and future-you.
Quick Rules
- Lowercase, hyphens only.
- Most specific first: design → product → angle → context.
- Keep it under ~90 characters; drop filler words.
Pattern: design-name-product-type-angle-context.jpg
Before → After
-
IMG_4032.jpg→gothic-rose-tough-phone-case-front-soft-stone-bg.jpg -
Case1FINAL.jpg→golden-garden-bee-tough-phone-case-angled-in-hand.jpg
Do This Now (2 minutes)
- Pick 3 product photos.
- Rename with the pattern above.
- Re-upload and update alt text to match the story (not verbatim).
Why It Matters
Clear filenames strengthen search signals, create “ghost backlinks” when images travel, and make your own library easier to manage.
Next: Alt Text vs. Filenames (Different Jobs, Same Story)
Get updates right to your inbox Sign up for our Newsletter