A picture is worth a thousand words, right? So, if you use any picture in your marketing it’s important to make sure it’s saying what you want it to. We tend to prefer visuals over text, so images are a great way to tell a story, share a product, or tell your followers more about you! And sure, sometimes you can snap a quick photo and it will be great. But other times, a picture taken on a smartphone might not do the trick. So when is it okay to take your own photos and when is it best to hire a professional photographer? We’re glad you asked! Here’s when we think you can get creative and DIY.
Social media – If you want to share a fun behind the scenes photo of your team at a meeting, working on a great new product, or having some fun during lunch break, snap a picture and share! That’s the beauty of social media. You can post immediately and when you take it yourself, it’s truly showing followers what you’re doing and giving them a look into your world.
Social media is a place where you can be a bit more laid back, so your photos can do the same. Of course, if you just got some professional pictures taken you’re really happy with, share! But you can have a little more fun and bring out your creative side when you snap some pics of your team and work space. You can brighten up some news feeds because who doesn’t love getting to know their favorite business better?
Email blasts – You can also include some of your own photos in an email blast. You’ll want to make sure they’re quality and a photo you’re happy sending out for your business, but depending on what the content is, you can have a little fun here too.
Now, there are a few times when an image taken on a phone or one taken quickly and without much thought won’t look very good. Here are a few places you should consider using a professional.
Websites – Your website is where people go to learn more about you and decide if they want to do business with you or not. You’ll want to make sure you’re making a good impression! Use photos that will stand out, are high quality, and will represent your business accurately.
Marketing Materials – If you’re sending mailers or handing out brochures, you’ll want it to look professional. Many of these items, like brochures, can be used for a while so it’s a good idea to include photos you’ll still like in a few months. Plus, a good image will make you and your company look better! If you have grainy photos that don’t look good, potential customers might not take you seriously.
Headshots – If you have a place on your website for headshots, it might be a good idea to get them taken by a professional. Then, they’re all similar and you know they’ll be high quality. Plus, headshots can be used in more places than websites, so you might as well get some good pictures you’re happy to share on social media, professional profiles and more!
Make sure the images you use in your marketing are telling the story you want them to. It’s a great idea to have some fun and share what you and your business is really like with some photos you take yourself, but it’s also important to know when to bring in a professional for certain marketing pieces.
