Choosing the Right Images
Images can make a world of difference in capturing your visitor’s attention and engaging them. A single image can convey more to the viewer than a carefully composed block of text. Furthermore, images cross language barriers in a way that text simply can’t.
So how do you know you’re using images to maximize your design’s success? Use the checklist below to ensure your image appeal to your audience.
Make sure images are relevant. Select images that show your audience the products or services you offer.
Use generic photos of people sparingly. While using photos of people in web design is an effective way to engage your audience, inauthentic images may leave them with a sense of shallow, false pretence.
Know your brand voice & be consistent. Always make sure images feel cohesive and contribute to the overall look and feeling of your brand. For instance, the website for a private yoga instructor probably won’t be flashy with bright colours and jarring graphics. The design for this business should reflect a calm mood, with soft visuals and light or neutral colors.
Ask yourself: how do you want people to feel when they look at your design?
Use high-quality photos. The quality of the photos you use will have a tremendous impact on the user’s impression and expectations of your service.
Fortunately, obtaining photos that meet all those requirements don’t have to cost an arm and a leg. While “borrowing” photos you like from Google image search is a big no-no, there have been a growing number of websites that offer free beautiful high-quality stock photography. Photos from these types of sites are free to use commercially – no attribution required! These are 5 of my favourite sources for free photos:
Unfortunately, sometimes you can’t find the photo you want on a free stock photo site. A few paid stock photo sites offer free trial periods or a certain number of free photos for new users. If all you need are a fixed number of photos to populate your designs, this can be an excellent choice. Here are a few paid stock photo options:
