Product image links convert ~1.4x text, but cost you data — here's the fix

Image links convert ~1.4x inline text in our sample (n=2,200), yet they're easy to leave untracked. The image-link playbook:
— Use real product images, not generic stock — recognition drives the click
— Always wrap with your tag AND a unique ascsubtag
— Add descriptive alt text (accessibility + the click intent is clearer)
— Avoid Amazon's deprecated image API; self-host with attribution per their terms
— A/B one post: image link vs text link, same ASIN, split by ascsubtag
— Measure for 4+ weeks before calling a winner — image lift varies by niche
So what: image links usually win on conversion, but only if you tag them well enough to prove it post by post.