Pictures that help rather than break.
THE CONSTRAINT
Many email clients block images by default. Some readers never see them.
A message that is one large image shows those readers nothing.
THE RULE
The message must make sense without images. Always include the actual content as text.
ALT TEXT
Set it on every image. It displays when images are blocked, and it serves screen readers.
An image with no alt text shows an empty box.
SIZE
Compress properly. Subscribers on metered data pay for what you send.
A newsletter of several megabytes is a genuine cost to your reader.
DIMENSIONS
Specify width so the layout does not collapse when images are blocked.
Keep them within a sensible width; email clients display narrower than websites.
HOW MANY
Few. One good image supporting the message beats six decorating it.
ANIMATED IMAGES
Some clients show only the first frame. If you use one, make the first frame meaningful.
THE TEST
View the message with images disabled. If it is incomprehensible, restructure it.
