Human beings are visual creatures, so as an entrepreneur, you have likely considered using images for your small business’s website, blog, promotional pieces and various marketing materials.
While it’s always best to stand out with original images that are created just for your brand, sometimes it just makes more sense, both time-wise and cost-wise, to go the stock image route. In this case, keep a few things in mind when using stock photos and illustrations to promote your brand:
Mind the law
Be aware of the legal stipulations behind the images you use. Even free images might have some conditions. Under no circumstances should you use a watermarked image; not only is it prohibited, but it makes your brand look amateurish!
Be creative
Using a boring image is almost as bad as using no image at all. Get creative when choosing your images, try not to be too literal, have some fun with subtext. For example, if you’re posting an article about reaching financial goals, maybe use an image of a runner crossing a finish line. Just remember to stay relevant since no one likes to be misled or baited by an image that has nothing to do with the rest of your content.
Don’t pick popular images
The risk that comes with using stock images is that anyone can use them! Remember, you still want your brand to stand out, so if a stock photo seems familiar… don’t use it. When doing a keyword search for images, the most popular choices will come up first, so use something that pops up on page two or three if you want something less familiar.
Size matters
Make sure the stock images you purchase meet the requirements of their intended use. You can often save money by buying smaller images if you only intend on using them online, but if you want to use them for print, you need to be mindful of their resolution.
Your brand ALWAYS comes first
No matter what the situation, every image you use needs to reflect your branding at the end of the day. Don’t use an image that is going to confuse or offend your target market in any way.
Need a hand with your business’ brand? Call Kim Speed at Purple Moon Creative today!
