Image optimization plays a critical role in both SEO and user engagement. When images are properly optimized through compression, responsive sizing, and appropriate metadata they load faster, making the site more user-friendly. This improved user experience leads to longer session durations, reduced bounce rates, and increased conversions. Search engines take these engagement signals into account, often rewarding faster, well-optimized sites with higher rankings. Furthermore, including alt text and descriptive captions ensures accessibility for visually impaired users and enhances the site's relevance for search engines. In the long run, investing in image optimization not only improves the site's performance metrics but also strengthens its overall SEO strategy, helping it attract more visitors and achieve better results.