Why Your Business Needs Better Photography
Online, first impressions happen in the blink of an eye. Research consistently shows that people form snap judgments about brands based largely on visual presentation, whether they’re browsing your website, scrolling through social media, or viewing your ads. In an era where attention spans are shrinking and competition is fierce, investing in quality photography isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about gaining and retaining consumers.
Blurry, poorly lit, or generic photos can turn potential customers away before they even learn what you have to offer. In Memphis especially, where local businesses of all types are competing for attention, the visual quality of your online presence can be the deciding factor between gaining a new client or losing them to a competitor.
The Reality Of First Impressions
Many local businesses (especially in Memphis) still rely on amateur photography, often using stock images or low resolution photos taken with smartphones. While this might seem cost effective, it can come across as a lack of professionalism to prospective customers.
Frankly, consumers today expect high quality visuals. The rise of social media and the ability to take photos whenever and wherever has made first impressions even more important. According to the article “A Guide To Ecommerce Product Images (+10 tactics To Improve Yours)”, more than 75% of e-commerce shoppers rely on product images to make purchasing decisions, with most people acting on what they see versus what they read in the product description. Think about how you do your own consumer research, you’ll find that you likely value the same things.
With that in mind, there’s no question that professional photography can set your business apart. Quality images help establish a strong visual identity, portraying your business as polished and trustworthy, with clear products and services. This can lead to increased customer trust and loyalty.
Where Photography Matters Most
If you exist online, expect to be seen online. Key touchpoints like your website and social media platforms are often the first point of contact with potential customers, and it’s a good idea to check in on your visual consistency across the board, including:
- Keeping only high quality, descriptive images on your website home page and product/service pages
- Maintaining visual consistency on social media, especially on platforms like Instagram that are photo and video focused
- Regularly updating your Google Business Profile with recent and quality photos
- Aligning flyers or brochures with brand standards, make sure the images you use translate well to a physical product
- Making sure in-store imaging (cutouts, posters, packaging, etc) matches the images you release online, don’t catfish your products or services
Whether it’s on your socials, flyers, or online ads, professional photos can make your marketing materials more appealing and effective in conveying your message.
Hidden Costs Of DIY Photography
While taking your own photos might seem like a time saver at first, it does require a certain skill set. Without an inherent eye for framing or any experience beforehand, it can become even more time consuming and may not even look that great! Plus, just like anything else, photography has rules. If you’re not going to hire a professional, you need to spend time learning the basics before you pick up a camera. Professional photographers exist for a reason, and have the ability to produce consistent, quality images that show rather than tell.
Even if you’re lucky enough to have that natural eye, we haven’t even started talking about supplies. Photography equipment and editing softwares are well-known for costing an arm and a leg, meaning high setup costs for you. Camera lenses, lighting setups, and software subscriptions add up! Even with the right tools, achieving consistent results requires a high level of skill and experience. More often than not, hiring a professional photographer is the smarter investment.
Professionals bring an understanding of composition, lighting, and storytelling that can really make your visuals stand out. Over time, this can be far more cost effective than trying to manage everything yourself and risk mediocre results.
What You Get From Professional Photography
Professional photography can be critical in shaping your identity. Working with professionals can help ensure that your images accurately reflect your brand’s style and tone, ultimately helping to build recognition and trust with your audience.
Plus, the expertise of a professional goes beyond taking good pictures. Experienced photographers understand lighting, composition, and resolution, which guarantees that your visuals are always polished and high quality. They can also provide creative direction, guiding and your brand’s story through compelling imagery that captures attention and communicates your message effectively.
Don’t forget the practicality. Most reputable photographers will provide you with a library of content that can be repurposed across campaigns, and organized for efficiency’s sake.
Captivate Your Audience with Quality Visuals
In a competitive local market, poor visuals can hurt your business. Every image on your website, social media, Google Business Profile, or other marketing materials represents your brand. Ultimately, first impressions matter and high quality photography helps you stand out.
Don’t let amateur photos hold your brand back. Showcase your products and services the way they deserve to be seen and watch how quality visuals transform customer perception. Need a hand with your photography? Contact AdVentures Media and start building a photography strategy that takes you to the next level.