Let’s be honest, SEO can feel like a never-ending game.
But what if I told you there’s a secret method to getting backlinks without writing 10,000 or more word blog posts or bribing your competitors with free coffee, would you trust me?
Well, the method is the image backlinks strategy.
Yes, you can turn your images into backlink-building machines after reading this article. And no, I’m not talking about the black hat tactic. I’m talking about a completely legitimate method.
By the way, let’s get started.
What Are Image Backlinks?
Think of it like this:
You create a custom illustration or infographic (all these are content formats) for your post.
Like this one from iGrowthful Strategies:
Other sites love your design (because let’s be real, it’s awesome) and decide to use it in their content. Most websites naturally link back to the original source, which is your website.
But here’s the catch…
Not everyone gives proper credit.
Some people:
- ✅ Link back to your website (Good human!)
- ❌ Link only to the image file (Not ideal…)
- ❌ Use your image without crediting you (Shady!)
If someone is using your image without linking to your page, you are missing out on free SEO juice. But don’t worry, I’ve got a solution.
Which Types of Images Drive Links Automatically?
Custom and high-quality visuals.
Especially infographics, illustrations, and charts tend to drive links automatically. These images offer a clear, digestible way to present complex information, making them incredibly shareable.
When content creators find value in your original visuals, they naturally link back to your site as the source, boosting your SEO and establishing your authority in the niche.
So, try to make high-quality visuals using original studies.
How To Find Or Claim Your Image Backlinks
Follow these simple steps,
First Step: Right-click on the image from your post.
Second Step: Select the Search with Google Lens.
💡 Pro tip: Also use Google Reverse Image Search to track where your images are being used.
Third Step: Google will show you where your image appears on the internet.
Fourth Step: Check if the website/s linked back to you.
If not, reach out and kindly ask them to add the correct link.
For example,
Once I found websites using my images without a proper backlink, I sent them a short, polite email requesting a link.
Here’s the exact template I used:
Subject: Quick Fix: Image Credit Update
Hey [Name],
I noticed that you used my image in your article: [URL of their article]
Thanks for finding it useful.
Would you mind linking to my original post where it came from?
Here’s the correct source: [Your URL]
This helps your readers find more useful information, and I’d really appreciate it.
Let me know if you need anything from me.
Thanks,
[Your Name]
The Results
I sent about 150 emails and got,
- 51 backlinks from 20 websites
- 14,700+ referral visitors
- $2,494 in extra revenue
Not bad for a zero-cost strategy, right?
Here’s the proof:
Final Thoughts
Image backlinks are a goldmine most people overlook.
If you create original visuals, make sure you’re getting proper credit.
- ✅ Find sites using your images.
- ✅ Reach out with a friendly request.
- ✅ Watch your backlinks (and traffic) grow.
That’s it.
SEO doesn’t always have to be complicated.
Go out there and start turning your images into backlinks and revenue.
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