Stock Image Libraries – Great assets but do your homework…
Most business don’t have their own library of images that can be used to promote or showcase their business so stock image libraries are a godsend to all designers, however in many circumstances commissioning a photographer to create your own bespoke photos is a must!
It seems that even large corporations/administrations have been a bit stingy and have relied on the stock image libraries to communicate their message…
Hmm… sadly a little home work was necessary before launching these adverts…. (September 8-12th)
So the ad was released by the Trump campaign calling people to support their troops… but the image shows a Russian made fighter jet (MiG-29) and Russian dressed soldiers…. OOOps!
– If you need it its on Shutterstock.com
Credibility? Need I say any more?
For many small businesses the budget often won’t stretch to a full library of shots but the investment is worth while in the long run.
Start small and build!
Having your own photographs that will never appear on any one else website or brochure is really important. It’s really embarrassing to see the image you have just used appear on someone else’s advert or brochure…
You can get a huge amount of use out of them now with social media posts and blogs. Utilising them on brochures and websites then supporting adverts and blogs will create recognition and interest so building your brand. As long as they are cleverly shot they will last a life time! High quality shots can be cropped and used in different aspects and used in interesting portions making them versatile and economically justifiable.
Invest in your business, invest in a photography shoot with a recommended photographer every so often. Photograph your exhibition, your meetings (get permission from the delegates of course) and build up your library. Don’t rely on your phone shots, a few can do the job every now and then but a good set of professional images will be worth the fees!
So next time one of your competitors produces a glossy expensive brochure and you recognise several over used photographs, go one better and create your own bespoke images and knock them off their pedestal!
Top Tip – always aim to produce better marketing media than your best targeted client or your best competitor!
Written by Angie Phillips, Design Consultant - Helping you create business by creating IMPACT! Fabulous effective design that makes you say WOW! Using my expertise to promote yours. Fiercely committed to my clients and getting my hands on your assets! Always happy to offer help and advice. Promoting and helping you to grow through networking & introductions even after our work is done. #CreatingBusinessByDesign #CreatingIMPACT #LOVEwhatIdoMore from CREATIVE DESIGN MATTERS! with useful information here