What should product images be in order to be displayed in Google rich snippets?

In today’s digital world, it is crucial for businesses to present their product online. One way to achieve this is by making use of Google rich snippets, which offer a wealth of your product info in the search results. One key aspect of rich snippets is the inclusion of product images. But what exactly should these images be like in order to be displayed in Google’s rich snippets?

Google has specific guidelines when it comes to product images in rich snippets.

High quality images

The first requirement is that the image should be of high-quality, as Google aims to provide users with the best visual representation of the product.

Images should be clear, well-lit, and of a sufficiently high resolution. Blurry or pixelated images are thus not suitable for rich snippets.

Size and dimensions of the image

While Google doesn’t specify any specific dimensions, it is recommended to use images that are at least 160×90 pixels in size. This ensures that the image is large enough to be shown in the search results. Additionally, it is important to note that the aspect ratio of the image should be preserved, as distorted images may not be accepted by Google.

You also need to avoid uploading large images. For example, you don’t need to upload 2500×1500 pixels image if your product page can show only 1080 x 650 pixels images.

Alt text for the product image

Alt text is an alternative text that is shown when an image cannot be loaded. This alt text should describe the image and provide additional context to help Google understand the content of the image. For product images, it is advisable to include information such as the product name, brand, and any other relevant details. This ensures that the alt text provides meaningful information to users and search engines.

Product visualization

In addition to the technical aspects, product images in rich snippets should also showcase the product in the best way. This means that the image should be visually appealing and highlight the key features of the product. For example, if you are selling clothing, the product image should show the item being worn by a model, allowing users to visualize how the item would look on them. Similarly, for electronic products, the image should display the device from different angles, showing off its design and functionality.

Moreover, it is important to consider the overall aesthetic of your product images. They should be consistent with your brand’s visual identity and follow a cohesive style. Using professional photography and styling techniques can greatly enhance the total quality of your product images and make them more appealing to both users and Google.

To sum up, product images in Google rich snippets should be of:

high-quality,

have the right size and dimensions,

include descriptive alt text,

showcase the product in an appealing way,

adhere to your brand’s aesthetic.

By following these guidelines, you can boost your chances of having your product images displayed in Google’s rich snippets, ultimately improving your visibility and driving more users to your online shop. So, make sure to invest time and effort in optimizing your product images for Google rich snippets, as they can greatly impact your online success.

Despite the implementation of all the image improvements, it is still no guarantee that product images will be shown in Google’s rich snippets since it depends on Google’s algorithms and presentation choices.

Author

Sofiia Astanina

Design Lead