Best Stock Photos for Social Media
I am not sure the creators of today’s social media platforms had any idea the reach and breadth their platforms would eventually take on. True we still see a lot of social media content use revolving around personal interactions, but more and more these digital platfo rms are being leveraged for business purposes.
The imagery you choose to use in your social media engagements is the building blocks for your businesses marketing messages. They are what will grab your audience’s attention in a sea of posts and are the first impression your customers will have of you and your business.
Strong stock images that powerfully convey your messages will lift up and carry your brand while poorly chosen ones can actually have a negative impact on your core business — so it is important to consider a few key concepts when choosing the right photos.
Have a clear in their theme
The last thing you want to do is to confuse your audience with an ill-chosen image. If you are promoting early child education, avoid using images that show teenagers or adults in learning situations. Focus instead on the tools of early education, and show them in fun and playful environments. You want the image to be appealing and not discourage your audience from reading further.
Set the right tone
People are drawn to happy, hopeful imagery. Consider the color tones and lighting in addition to the subject matter when choosing the right image. The last thing you would want is to convey scary or spooky tones when marketing a pediatrician business for example! Set the tone for your message by choosing images with strong design elements.
Differentiate from your competitors
Look for images that stand out for their uniqueness instead of conform to the stereotypes. Anybody can take a picture of a cute sleeping baby, instead show your creativity it terms of subject and composition when promoting your services will help you stand out from the crowds filling the pages of social media.
Avoid overloading elements in an image
Images should be clean and have a clear focal point. That is the area you want most associated with your brand. Avoid images that are cluttered or overcrowded as they may contain hidden messages or unintended meaning — and you can trust social media users to pick up even the tiniest thread and run with it.
Choose appropriately
While it is perfectly appropriate to use grungy, edgy images when promoting an adult business like a Tattoo parlor, it would not be wise to use for marketing a daycare center. Remember, you never want to go “viral” for all the wrong reasons! Keep your imagery audience and subject appropriate.
When it comes to using social media marketing, it is important to keep brand consistency across all imagery and messages in your social media feed. Take the time to choose the right images to paint the picture you want. And working with a stock agency will ensure you have the correct license for the images you’re are using for your marketing.
Photo credits: Darkworx.
