Contents

Definition

The alternative text is a description of the image content to make the media file (digital representation) accessible to people who cannot see it. 

Other possible database element names

Alt-Text

Alternative text

Text/URI

Text 

Repeatable

Yes

Obligation level

Recommended

Recording notes

Alternative text is particularly important for people with visual impairments who use screen readers or other assistive technologies. Alternative text should concisely and vividly describe the visible elements, style and medium that are central to understanding. Care should be taken to highlight important details that contribute to the meaning or atmosphere of the object/work depicted. The language should be simple, clear and as objective as possible.

For more information on how to write an alternative text, see: German Federation of the Blind and Partially Sighted (DBSV)

Examples

Painting (Impressionism): "This oil painting by Claude Monet shows an early morning scene with soft pink and blue colours, depicting a row of dimly lit houses along a river. The quick brushstrokes and the reflection of light on the water convey a calm, misty atmosphere."

Sculpture (modern art): "Abstract bronze sculpture by Henry Moore, approximately two metres high. The sculpture shows intertwined forms that appear both organic and fluid, reminiscent of human figures leaning against each other."

Photograph (portrait): "Black and white photograph of an elderly man looking directly into the camera. The man has deep wrinkles and a serious expression. The light falls on his face from the side, emphasising the texture of his skin and the intensity of his gaze."

Historical artefact (medieval tapestry): "The detailed medieval tapestry shows a battle scene with numerous knights on horseback. The knights carry colourful coats of arms and lances. Tents and flags can be seen in the background, suggesting a bustling camp life."

Expression in LIDO (v1.0 and v1.1)

<lido:resourceWrap>
	<lido:resourceSet>  
        <lido:resourceDescription lido:type="https://www.wikidata.org/entity/P11265" xml:lang="de">Das Ölgemälde von Claude Monet zeigt eine frühmorgendliche Szene mit sanften rosa und blauen Farbtönen, die eine Reihe schwach beleuchteter Häuser entlang eines Flusses darstellt. Die schnellen Pinselstriche und die Lichtreflexion auf dem Wasser vermitteln eine ruhige, neblige Atmosphäre.</lido:resourceDescription> 
        <lido:resourceDescription lido:type="https://www.wikidata.org/entity/P11265" xml:lang="en">This oil painting by Claude Monet shows an early morning scene with soft pink and blue colours, depicting a row of dimly lit houses along a river. The quick brushstrokes and the reflection of light on the water convey a calm, misty atmosphere.</lido:resourceDescription>
	</lido:resourceSet>
</lido:resourceWrap>

Comparison with relevant standards and database models

Alternative texts are not addressed in the standards and database models analysed.

ID data element

mds0017

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