Adding images to email messages can really enhance the overall experience for subscribers. But if your images are too large or don't really pertain to the topic, images can become a burden rather than an asset. Before adding images to your next bulk email, take some time to make sure these images will really benefit the overall theme, tone, and topic of your message.

Image Size

Images should be large enough to be seen clearly, but not so large that they take up half the page. In fact, large images could set off spam filters – this means your message could end up in spam folders rather than in subscriber inboxes. Avoid this by sizing images correctly before sending.

Preview messages to determine if the image size is correct. The image should be clear, easy to read (graphs, charts, etc.), contain limited fuzziness, and should fit neatly next to the text.

Keep in mind that people may view messages on a PC, tablet, or smartphone. Large images take much longer to download than smaller ones, so if viewing on a smartphone, your message could take several minutes to view. This is a major turnoff for subscribers – many will simply stop downloading and move on to the next message.

Image Choices

The types of images you choose can also make a difference to subscriber enjoyment. Include charts and graphs if sending mass email messages to B2B customers as these people are used to receiving information this way. Consumers on the other hand, probably won't appreciate a chart or graph unless it is very simple.

Adding an image just to add an image is not appropriate because people will look at the overall message and think they're missing something. Only add images that enhance the topic or theme of your message.

Obnoxious Images

Unless your business promotes gag gifts or funny t-shirts, don't add obnoxious, obscene, or offensive images to email text just to get a laugh or to shock people. This tactic rarely ever results in sales, but may increase opt-out rates. Before including any risqué or potentially offensive images, make sure you know your audience – also keep in mind that anything really offensive will be considered spam and will probably be sent to spam folders.