How many images should be included in an article for SEO optimal ?

Hi,

I usually use only one cover image. Is there a best practice for the number of images that should be included?

There is no specific number but just one may not be sufficient in my opinion.

You can add images as per article/content requirements, otherwise 1-2 images are enough.

Most of the time I think about mobile optimization, which means that readers wont read a 5000 word article/content on mobile if you dont divide the content with images or tables. I would recommend to use 1 image after each 3-4 longer paragraphs. In fact this is what worked for me. Obviously if your content its short its enough 1-2 images/content. There are no specific rules for this