bildtext

Bildtext is the text that accompanies an image and provides essential information about its content, provenance, and context. It is used in a variety of settings, including newspapers, magazines, textbooks, museums, and digital media, to help readers understand what is depicted and where it fits within a broader narrative.

In journalism and publishing, a Bildtext typically appears near the image and includes basic identification such as who or what is shown, the location, and the date. It may also add a brief description, the source or photographer credit, and, in some cases, a short quote or contextual note. In longer layouts or photo essays, Bildtexte can take the form of expanded captions or sidebars that provide additional interpretation or background.

There is a distinction with related terms. Bildunterschrift is the common term for a brief caption directly under or beside an image. Bildtext can be broader, encompassing longer descriptive or explanatory labels. Bildbeschreibung (or alt text) refers to text that describes an image for accessibility purposes, particularly for screen readers, and is not always visible on the page.

Best practices for Bildtext include keeping it neutral and factual, using concise language, and including essential details such as date and source where relevant. For digital media, providing accessible Bildbeschreibung ensures that the image is understandable to users who cannot view it. See also Bildunterschrift, Bildbeschreibung, and caption in publishing.