Part II: Pictures Are a Must – No Stealing Required

Yesterday we interviewed Trish Tully, owner of Thrive Communication. She has over 15 years experience as a Graphic Designer and Communications Project Manager. We are discussing the do’s and don’ts that should be followed when adding photos to your social media posts.

Read part I: Why Do Images Grab Our Attention more than just plain text?

Can you tell what to look for when choosing an image?

Two main issues: impact and resolution

I steer my clients to more close up shots and more vibrant shots for impact. Even unusual shots that just get attention, if for no other reason than for the reader to do a double take. I'll compromise on the messaging before I compromise on the impact. It's meant to be a tease, not tell the whole story. You only have a few seconds to nab someone before they scroll on.

Resolution is important. Sites such as iStock and Big Stock have information to help buyers choose the proper file size so that it translates clearly to their medium: print or web. And if you find that too confusing, get a graphic designer to help you. You don't want to download an image that is too low in resolution to save a few bucks, just to find out that it looks blurry once it's cropped and in position and you have to go back and pay for the image again in higher rez.

Do you have any advice on how to source or find an image we can add to our social media?

I don't have time for all the hunting around for freebies and I certainly don't want the risk. I keep it simple and use stock. Two sites I recommend that are very affordable for those not wanting to spend a lot on images are iStock and Big Stock. I can often find images in literally seconds and at prices as low as $2.99. My time is worth more than that so I don't cheap out trying to hunt down free stuff.

And besides the legalities and cost, you get what you pay for. Free Google images are going to be low resolution and will look cheesy (i.e. blurry, bitmapped) on your blog or site. Not a good image (pun not intended).

Anything you would like to add?

You'll regret having poor quality imagery on your site or none at all. But no one ever regrets going that extra mile for quality and impact – which translates to results.