5 Reasons To Outsource Photography For Your Business
Outsourcing photography can seem like a luxury that your business can do without but read on to learn why this might be a great decision for you…
Over the past few weeks, I’ve worked with 3 different clients using my photography skills for different small business needs. I can’t claim to be a ‘professional photographer’ but I can say that I’ve gained many skills and experience from navigating my own business over the past 7 years and with my trusty Nikon SLR camera, we’ve come a long way.
Marketing Materials - Barbara Mcnish, Triquester Teams
“Yes, of course, use your phone to take everyday photos that represent your business but for ‘key’ images, I’d say don’t do it!”
Following up on my quote above, when I say ‘key’, I’m referring to banner images for your website, product images, artwork, marketing materials and profile photos etc.
Some factors to consider before pressing the shutter release
It’s helpful to run through the following when taking photos, no matter what the subject or need for your business. You’ll find as you get more practiced, that this will come more naturally to you.
What am I taking a photo of? This is going to inform your camera settings and decision-making.
How will the image be used? For instance, marketing materials for a brochure are going to have very different needs to a ‘lifestyle’ shot of your business.
Lighting - Is there enough detail and balance with shadows, highlights, exposure and contrast?
What’s the message? Is there a feeling or narrative that needs to be conveyed in order to make an impact? What’s the focal point?
Is the alignment correct? Check that all elements are lined up correctly, the horizon is level, and the verticals are correct. It’s not always 100% possible but it’s being aware that’s key.
Framing? Knowing what to eliminate and what to keep helps remove distractions and unnecessary clutter in your photos - it helps the viewer to focus on what’s important.
Brand photography - I’m working on this website currently.
Reasons why photography is so important for your business
So, why are photos so important anyway - aren’t they just an add-on or a pretty distraction? Well, not quite. Read on…
We live in a visual world
All businesses need visual input and whether that might be for your website, products/services, marketing materials, an article in the local paper, blog posts etc. - we definitely respond very differently to a visual image versus, the written word. This is especially true when we wish to purchase a product or service via the Internet and we have questions about the item. Having clear photos helps to answer our questions and let’s face it, if questions can be answered, you are more likely to keep that potential client looking at your stuff.
Your customers want to connect with you
When a customer purchases from you, they want to know a little about the ‘you’ behind the brand and what you’re about. This helps to build rapport and understanding. Stock photos are great in some situations but ideally, you want your clients to connect with you, your team and your offerings.
Photos help you get found on the web
Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) is vital in order to get seen. When photos are added to your site, social media, blogs etc. There are lots of measures that need to be in place to help with your SEO but ‘image tags’ are certainly a contributing factor. In addition, offline images that are used via marketing materials etc are also valuable.
Images help with your branding
Branding is all important and whilst taking photos with your phone can seem an easy option, it’s sometimes a mistake. Photos that are blurry or, are just generally not doing your business any favours can be so damaging because when a photo is on your site, it represents you.
Images can help with marketing
By using high-quality photos throughout your business, you are marketing your business in a professional and highly advantageous way.
Shirley Gaston - Azesta (I’m currently working on a brand new site for this client)
There you have it! I hope this gives you some helpful thoughts for handling photography for your small business.
As always, I love to hear from you - please comment below with your thoughts or, if you’d rather not share publicly, contact me.
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