As a photographer I truly understand the immense importance that high-quality images hold for your business’s success. Sometimes, in the hustle and bustle of getting everything just right, people tend to overlook the fact that every single detail counts; you diligently take care of designing the perfect logo, carefully select a cohesive color palette, and finalize your fonts, while simultaneously starting to piece together captivating graphics. But amidst all these elements, something crucial might still feel like it’s missing, right? When it comes to making a brand come together seamlessly—especially for those of you running an online business that boasts an engaging website and an active social media presence (which, let’s be honest, applies to nearly every modern business)—you absolutely need stunning photographs! Allow me to share a variety of options that can elevate your visual storytelling;

1- Hired an expert - You need someone to take original images for your brand, someone that have a clear vision on what your imagery should look like. Having your own photography is a huge asset, it will not only help you stand out, but it will save you lots of time not having to look for photos, that are one size fits all, repetitive and not necessarily good for your brand. Brand photographers will create for you, never will use stock photos and will make sure to suited your brand.

2- Styled stock images - You can either choose a Premium bundle or free stock images. Be aware that this task is time consuming and not as “original”, “exclusive” or “unique”. If you do not have a strategy set it will be confusing not only to you but a potential client. Seeing repetitive images on different businesses will be overwhelming for some. Also; make sure that they are actually free stock images and not just images you've found on the internet somewhere - that is a HUGE no no (this violates copyright laws!). If you find a free stock image website make sure you check out the licensing page - if you can't find anything about licences, save yourself the worry and just don't use the images.

At the moment you decide to invest on your brand remember this…

• Your colors. The vibe, the logo the prints, look at the photos next to your brand colors, do they look good together or do they clash?

• Your Client. If you know your target audience, it's going to be much easier to pick images. Mentally transform yourself and look at the images through your ideal customers eyes before you use it.

• Cohesiveness. Put all of the photos you have collected together, are they working? Is there anything standing out in a bad way? Even if you've filled all of the boxes, there still might be some images that just don't sit well together and don't give off that totally curated and cohesive professional vibe. Business mind.

• Remember the 3 brand photos you need for your business. Professional (Your business needs shots of you doing what you do in your environment, such as assisting a client, working on the computer, talking on the phone, styling a client’s hair, baking a cake, playing a song). Lifestyle. (You want to be relatable and create a space for your audience to connect with you and start conversations). Details/Flat lay images. (Get some images with your hands interacting with the objects. It makes your images more personal. Create visual variety, detail photos not only give your audience a closer look at your product)