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Alt texts as meta data would and the need for context
The idea of including alt text for images as metadata into image files pops up every now and then.
Eric Bailey explains some of the many reasons why this isn't as good of an idea as it seems:
The largest thing to grapple with is that images are contextual. Choosing to select and share one is a highly intentional act, and oftentimes requires knowing the larger context of how it will be viewed.
(From: Thoughts on embedding alternative text metadata into images – Eric Bailey)
He explains describing images is a human to human thing, not a “problem” that just needs some tech thrown at it. Even if some of the tech can in some ways be helpful and powerful.