To help low vision users, deciding when to use an image is important, as reading an image can be time consuming. Providing an alternative, such as:
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replacing a picture with an image description, may be more appropriate
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transcribing an existing image or designing large print images from scratch can be an alternative
To help you decide which approach to take, there are a number of steps to take to review an image:
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Does the image convey important information which needs to be presented? If the image is purely decorative it could be removed completely. Include any figure references or captions within the accompanying text if there are any.
If the image does convey important information consider:
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Will the information in the image be more effective if described in words? If so, remove the image and describe the information instead.
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Is the information in the image more important than the appearance of the image? If so, ensure this information is presented in the most effective way. Depending on the context, for example, where data is presented in a chart; it is the data that is more important than the appearance of the chart. In these circumstances, it may be possible to remove the image and present the data as a description instead. Review the image to ensure that any patterns the data shows, that are apparent to a sighted person are described.
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Is the image conveying information which is easier to show in an image? If so, create or transcribe a large print image. There are concepts which are best presented as an image; or it may be that an image is going to be used as the basis of a discussion; or used to teach graphical concepts. If creating or transcribing an image, follow the guidance within this document.
If an image is removed it is important that it is referred to either by a reference or statement such as 'the data presented in the chart' to ensure that a partially sighted person is aware that an image has been used, so they can request an accessible version if they want one; and will know that an image is being referred to in a discussion.
If you decide to keep the image, there are some suggestions for designing large print images which will help you design effective images. The page describing large print images will suggest ways to support an image. If you decide to remove an image, the image descriptions page will provide useful advice.