Alternative text that carries no information in Shopify

WCAG 1.1.1 (A) · EN 301 549 9.1.1.1

Some images have alt text that is a file name, a code, or a generic word like "image" or "photo".

Where to change it in Shopify

If you imported your catalogue from a CSV, check the "Image Alt Text" column and re-import with real descriptions instead of file names.

Shopify themes are edited under Online Store › Themes. "Edit code" opens the Liquid templates. Many colour and typography settings can be changed without coding, from the theme editor.

<img src="/p1.jpg" alt="image">
<img src="/p2.jpg" alt="DSC_0042.jpg">

<img src="/p1.jpg" alt="Grey running shoe with orange sole">
<img src="/p2.jpg" alt="Black canvas 20-litre backpack, side view">

Why it matters

An alt that reads "DSC_0042.jpg" or "product" satisfies the form but not the function: the person still has no idea what is in the picture. It usually happens when a catalogue was bulk-imported and the field was filled automatically.

On other platforms

• Alternative text that carries no information in WooCommerce