Story Based Question
You’ve spent hours optimizing your website’s images—compressing them, using WebP, and adding descriptive alt text. But when you check Google Search Console, some images aren’t getting indexed.
You start researching and find out about image sitemaps—a way to help Google discover and index your images faster. Now, you’re wondering: What exactly is an image sitemap, and how do you create one?
Exact Answer
An image sitemap is an XML file that helps search engines find and index images on a website. It includes image URLs and optional metadata like captions, titles, and license information. To create one, list your images in <image:image> tags inside an XML sitemap and submit it to Google Search Console.
Explanation
Google’s crawlers don’t always find images on their own, especially if they’re loaded via JavaScript, hidden in sliders, or embedded in complex site structures. An image sitemap ensures that every important image gets indexed.
Why an Image Sitemap Matters
- Improves Image Indexing – Ensures all images, even those hidden in galleries or lazy-loaded, are discovered.
- Boosts Image SEO – Indexed images can appear in Google Image Search, increasing organic traffic.
- Essential for E-commerce & Portfolio Sites – Helps businesses that rely on images for conversions.
How to Create an Image Sitemap
Here’s a step-by-step process:
- Use an XML Format
Each image is added within<image:image>tags inside the<url>tag of your sitemap. Example:
<url>
<loc>https://example.com/product-page/</loc>
<image:image>
<image:loc>https://example.com/images/product1.webp</image:loc>
<image:title>Red Running Shoes</image:title>
<image:caption>Lightweight red running shoes for all terrains.</image:caption>
</image:image>
</url> - Include Multiple Images (If Needed)
If a page contains multiple images, list them separately under the same<url>tag. - Generate the Sitemap Automatically
Instead of manually coding, use SEO tools like: - Submit to Google Search Console
- Go to Google Search Console > Sitemaps
- Enter your sitemap URL (e.g.,
https://example.com/image-sitemap.xml) - Click Submit
Example
Let’s say you run an online art gallery. Your paintings are displayed in a carousel, meaning Google might not index them automatically.
You create an image sitemap listing each painting’s:
- Image URL
- Title (“Abstract Sunset”)
- Caption (“An oil painting of a sunset blending warm and cool colors.”)
After submitting the sitemap, Google starts indexing your images properly. Soon, your paintings appear in Google Image Search, bringing in more visitors and potential buyers.
An image sitemap helps search engines find and index your images, ensuring they appear in search results. If your website relies on images, creating and submitting an image sitemap is a must for better visibility.