How to get the perfect photos for your website
The images you choose, can make or break the visual impact of your website. We’ve all seen those websites that rely on stock photos that scream ‘generic’!
The optimal solution is to have your own photos that are specific to you and your brand. Images really do speak louder than words.
Why do you need images on your website?
Our way of reading has changed, and now consumers tend to flit over a webpage, before drilling down into the content.
So your website visitors check it’s worth their while reading it, before they do so!
Having strong and relevant images grabs their attention, and shows credibility. Don’t forget that some of us (me included!) are visual learners. So I’d rather look at a picture of a cafe’s interior and food, than read the text telling me how wonderful it is.
Your clients will make a purchasing decision based not just on what they read, but on how they feel. Can they imagine themselves wearing your clothes? Do you ‘feel’ like a trustworthy solicitor to trust with their house move? Images convey feeling more than simply words, especially on a webpage.
For today’s article, I’ll be focusing on how to take the perfect shots for your website. These guidelines apply whether you’re doing it yourself or with a friend, or if you’re employing a professional photographer.
What to do, and what not to do to get the perfect photos for your website
Have a photoshoot
In these covid times, it can be tricky or impossible to get a professional photographer in to take images. However, don’t let that stop you from getting decent photos.
You can DIY it, if you have a good quality camera (or even phone camera), or you can borrow one from a friend. This is definitely the best low-budget option if you’re just starting out. Seek out professional advice from experts through books such as ‘How to get the perfect photos for your website
The images you choose, can make or break the visual impact of your website. We’ve all seen those websites that rely on stock photos that scream ‘generic’!
The optimal solution is to have your own photos that are specific to you and your brand. Images really do speak louder than words.
Why do you need images on your website?
Our way of reading has changed, and now consumers tend to flit over a webpage, before drilling down into the content. So they check it’s worth their while reading it, before they do so! Having strong and relevant images grabs their attention, and shows credibility. Don’t forget that some of us (me included!) are visual learners. So I’d rather look at a picture of a cafe’s interior and food, than read the text telling me how wonderful it is.
Your clients will make a purchasing decision based not just on what they read, but on how they feel. Can they imagine themselves wearing your clothes? Do you ‘feel’ like a trustworthy solicitor to trust with their house move? Images convey feeling more than simply words, especially on a webpage.
For today’s article, I’ll be focusing on how to take the perfect shots for your website. These guidelines apply whether you’re doing it yourself or with a friend, or if you’re employing a professional photographer.
What to Do, and what not to Do, to get the perfect photos for your website
I encourage all my clients to have a wide range of photos.
Do book a photoshoot
In these covid times, it can be tricky or impossible to get a professional photographer in to take images. However, don’t let that stop you from getting decent photos.
- You can DIY it, if you have a good quality camera (or even phone camera), or you can borrow one from a friend. This is definitely the best low-budget option if you’re just starting out. Seek out professional advice from experts through books such as ‘The Crafter’s Guide to Taking Great Pictures’ by Heidi Adnum. I’ve heard so many people rave about this book.
- Do a ‘virtual’ photoshoot with a professional photographer. These are a great and innovative step up from the DIY version. Your photographer will join you by zoom (or equivalent), and guide you through everything you need, from staging and lighting, through to composition.
- Send products to your photographer – this is a great option for now. They will do all that’s needed, and send you amazing photos that you can use across your full online presence. Locally to the South Coast, Sarah Bennett specialises in product photography.
- Have a covid-secure photoshoot. This is still possible, and in fact, for cafes, florists, shops, and restaurants, this is a great time to get new photos. Without the usual interruptions of clients, you can get daylight photos!
Don’t be afraid to use stock images, but do choose wisely
There’s no shame in using stock photos, there are some amazing stock photo options out there. Sometimes, it can work out more affordable and you’ll get better quality images, than getting your own photos shot.
Here are some top tips for helping you choose:
- Look for models that fit your clients. I love choosing images that showcase diversity. Avoid boring business suits!
- Try throwing your net wider than just the big name stock photo websites. There are some wonderful independent stock photographers out there, they often have their own niche, so do some searching. Ask your web designer to help you out, chances are they know the perfect one.
- Don’t be afraid to splash the cash. Getty Images are at the top end, but it’ll save hours of scrolling and you’ll be rewarded with a perfectly curated set of potential images. I’m in love with their #ShowUs range at the moment.
Do encourage and enable user generated content
This is one of my favourite ways to capture fabulous images. JoJoMamanBebe, Boden and many other mainstream brands are making great and innovative use of user generated images.
Encourage your clients to use a hashtag, to share their images with you and then make space for them on your site. Just make sure you get their permission first!
