How to collect website photos that work for your brand

If you are planning on creating a website for your company, then the thought of sourcing imagery has most likely crossed your mind. However, instead of spending hours scouring the internet trying to figure it out, all you need is this blog. I plan on helping you navigate the world of website photography so that you not only find the perfect shots, but ones that you actually have permission to use! 

A trying task: finding website photos

The reality is that finding professional images that have not been overused already can be a difficult ask. The reality is that you don’t just want any photo that you find. It still needs to speak to the essence of your brand, be high-quality, relevant and licensed so that you can use them without the hassle. 

The reason why sourcing photos for your website requires more than a quick Google search is because they can either make or break your website. Regardless of whether you have a key design eye, we all love to look at aesthetically pleasing imagery and designs. Photography has the ability to enhance your website’s content or completely detract – the choice is yours. 

Let’s tell a visual story 

Remember that visual content is the future. In fact, it is one of the most important elements involved in establishing your brand’s online identity. When people click on your website, a lot of the information that they’ll be taking in will be visual. The first impression will be made, and it has everything to do with the images you choose to represent your brand. 

But fear not, we won’t let you navigate this in the dark, here is our personal guide to nailing your website photos!

Website photos: Free online imagery

Living in the digital age has its perks, one of which is definitely the fact that there are a number of free photo sites! You can gain access to high quality imager that are completely royalty free. Better yet they have a range of categories for you to explore. 

Many of these websites also update their designs and imagery regularly so you can always find images that suit your needs. These awesome sites are also categorised by size, colours, keywords and ratings too! You can also change the orientation of the images to match your website design too. 

Here are a few of my personal favourites: 

• Unsplash
• Pexels 
• Pixabay
• Open Photo
• Stock Vault 

‍

How to take professional images for your website

If you are considering taking your own custom images, that is a great idea! Being in charge of your own photography session means that you lead the creative direction of the shoot. You can also ensure that whatever photos are taken reflect the high standard of your company. 

Collecting photos from your own image bank is one of the greatest assets that you will have for your website! So, whether you opt in for a professional camera or a high pixel smartphone, keep in mind that the visitors to your website are expecting you to produce incredible imagery and visual content. 

Tips for taking your own images

1. Make sure to make use of bright, natural light. 
   Just make sure to be mindful of shadows that may be cast across your imagery. Research the best optimal lighting moment and take advantage of all that sunshine.
2. Invest in a sturdy tripod
   There is nothing worse than blurry, out of focus imagery. By investing in a tripod, you can ensure that you have high-quality, crisp, clear imagery that you can use for your website. 
3. Be mindful of composition
   Have you ever heard of the “rule of thirds? This means that you should place the subject of the photo (whatever is the most interesting or eye-catching) on the intersection of two lines. This ensures that you are not overstimulating viewers by having cluttered imagery. 
4. Plan ahead
   It is in your best interest to plan your shot in advance that way you know exactly what kind of shots you need to take and where they will be placed on your website. This means you can also source all of the things you will need way ahead of time.
   

It is important to remember the popular saying: A photo says a thousand words. What are the images on your website saying about you? If you keep this blog in mind when collecting website photos, your site will showcase professionalism, care and personality!