Visual optimization refers to the process of reducing and optimizing the size of visual content on your website to enhance its speed and user experience. Visual optimization contributes to faster loading of web pages, ensuring visitors have a better experience. Here are the fundamental steps to consider when performing visual optimization.
Choose the Correct File Type
When saving your images, select the most suitable file type based on its purpose. JPEG is more appropriate for photographs, while PNG is suitable for images with transparency and higher quality. Consider new-generation file formats like WebP.
Utilize Optimization Tools
Use online or offline tools to optimize your images. Graphic editing software such as Photoshop is handy for compressing images and adjusting dimensions. Additionally, online services or third-party optimization tools are available.
Adjust Sizes Accordingly
Save images in appropriate sizes based on where they will be used. For instance, a small profile picture requires smaller dimensions than a large image. This prevents uploaded images from occupying excessive space.
Compression of Images
Reduce file sizes by compressing your images. Compression helps minimize file size while preserving visual quality as much as possible.
Implement Lazy Loading
Consider using lazy loading for pages with a large number of images. Lazy loading ensures that only the images in the visible portion of the page are loaded while the page is loading, enhancing faster display.
Use CSS Sprites
Transform multiple small images into a single sprite image or icon fonts. This consolidates multiple requests, reducing page loading times.
Employ Responsive Design
Use responsive design to ensure your website displays properly on mobile devices. This may involve using images tailored to different device sizes.
Use CDN
Deliver your images more swiftly by utilizing a Content Delivery Network (CDN). CDN distributes images globally, providing users with faster access.
While visual optimization enhances website speed and improves user experience, it can also positively impact your SEO performance. Visual optimization is a recurring process that should be regularly performed to monitor and enhance your website’s performance. By collaborating with a proficient SEO agency, you can gain more in-depth insights into visual optimization and elevate your site to higher rankings by fine-tuning your visual elements.
Author: Hakan Karaman
