Image Accessibility
Images and graphics must be accessible to ensure that all users including individuals
who use screen readers or have low vision can understand the information being conveyed.
This applies to images in folllwing examples used in office files, PDFs, Brightspace
content, web pages, presentations and emails
Under Title II of the ADA and WCAG accessibility standards, images that convey meaning
must include appropriate text alternatives so the content is available to users who
cannot see the image.
Key Accessibility Requirements for Images
Accessible images must meet the following requirements:
- Alternative text (alt text) must be provided for all meaningful images
- Alt text should convey the purpose or meaning of the image, not just describe its
appearance
- Decorative images should be marked as decorative so they are ignored by screen readers
- Images containing text should be avoided when possible; important text should appear
as actual text, not embedded in an image
- Charts, graphs, and complex images require longer descriptions to explain the data
or relationships being shown
- Images must have sufficient color contrast and should not rely on color alone to convey
meaning
Writing Effective Alternative Text
Good alternative text:
- Is concise and meaningful
- Focuses on the information the image communicates
- Avoids phrases like “image of” or “picture of”
- Is tailored to the context in which the image is used
- If an image communicates information, that information must also be available in text.
Providing meaningful alternative text ensures images are accessible, supports compliance
with Title II, and helps create inclusive digital content for all users.
- Poor alt text either provides too much unnecessary detail or fails to explain why
the image is important.
Resources
The following resources provide clear guidance and examples for creating accessible
images and writing effective alternative text: