Choose images for your content
Choose images for your content
1. Choose an image that is appropriate for your content and reflects your branding.
Check your brand style guide and existing collaterals for ideas and be consistent.
2. Use high-resolution images in the correct file type, with at least 72 DPI (dots per inch) for digital, and no less than 300 DPI for print.
Using the wrong file format can affect the way images appear on your website.
3. Check the image resolution & limitations of your CMS (Squarespace, WordPress) and adjust images that are of a compatible size.
Using too large images might slow down loading times and too small images may lead to stretching, distortion, or pixelation. Use .png or .svg file formats (if supported). Use of transparent backgrounds on the images for overlay effects. Use tools like Canva to import an image into existing templates for specific social media platforms and create other effects like text overlays and more.
4. Add images that serve a purpose, such as demonstrate a process or feature, set a mood or promote a benefit of your product or service.
Do some research to get ideas from your top competitors and make sure none of them are using the same images.
5. Review your budget to see if you can use stock photos from stock photo agencies like Shutterstock, or Creative Commons stock providers such as Pixabay and Unsplash.
Stock photo providers such as Shutterstock, iStock, and Adobe Stock often offer free trial months and allow you to have a limited number of photos. You can also use copyright-free images under the Creative Commons license. If you are using photos from these stock providers, name the source and hyperlink the original URL. If you are using photos outside a free service such as Pixabay, it’s always best to ask permission from the original author.
6. Add infographics, charts or icons to your content to explain or promote data or processes.
For example, breaking down sustainability data to show your green credentials or explaining your product production or manufacturing process.
7. Choose a high-quality feature image with bright colors, not too noisy to match the tone of your content.
The feature image will most often decide if the user will click on your content or not. For example, a user is most likely to click on a content that features a photo of one or two subjects, rather than a photo of a crowd. If your content allows, choose a photo that will feature something that is commonly liked by everyone. For example, photos of babies, animals, food, or exotic locations.
8. Upload the image and go through the editing process.
Check for errors such as pixelation, distortion, poor cropping, stretching or misalignment. Position the images to match the style of your content. For example, center is the most common and effective alignment. Add relevant Alt text to your images for better SEO.