subject: Top 10 Tips On Choosing A Photo For Your Business Website [print this page] One of the first things that immediately capture attention is the website design. Aside from the layout and color scheme of the site, a first time website visitor usually notices the photos posted on the page. Some online marketers spend a lot on SEO services and pay per click advertising while overlooking their personal photo. Most website owners use a photo that is very unprofessional looking. Can the quality of your photos really affect the image of your site?
Let's talk about tips in choosing website photos that can make your website more professional and more appealing to visitors:
1) Have your photo taken by a photographer. Even if you think your photo looks great, have a business photo that is taken a professional photographer. You will just need to spare a few minutes so you can visit a local studio and have your picture taken. Make sure that you upload a recent photo on your site at least once a year instead of using your old photo taken five years or ten years ago.
2) Dress professionally. The way you dress can affect your image. It would better to bring along at least three different attires when you have your photos taken. Have a formal shot where you're dressed in corporate attire, formal and casual attire. This way, you can use these different photos on the different pages of your sites where they are more appropriate. When choosing the color of your dress, experts advise is to use the ones with neutral tones. If you plan to use your photos on your site for a longer period of time, might as well go for the classic styles that never gets outdated instead of the fad.
3) Pay attention to your hair and makeup. Make up can enhance the quality of your photos. However, avoid overdoing or putting on too much makeup. If you're not sure how to apply make-up, better go to the salon before you have your photo taken. Choose a hairstyle that best complements your features.
4) Look natural. When having your photo taken, a sincere smile is the best pose. No need to go for fancy poses or try to look like a model when you're not. A picture of you smiling plus a simple pose can help you draw people in.
5) Have some beauty sleep. It is essential to prepare yourself before having someone take your photo. Make sure you get enough rest the night before. If you lack sleep and you're tired, it will show through your face.
6) Use informal photos only when they're appropriate. Informal photos like you with your family, you at your home or you taking a walk with your pets can be included on your personal blogs. However, since your business website is the main site that represents your business, it would be best to choose a professional photo.
7) Use photo captions. Some online marketers overlook the importance of putting in a caption beside their photo. However, since your photo captures the audience's attention the first, you should take the opportunity to introduce yourself to them the moment they look at your photo.
8) Use testimonial photos. A testimonial page on your website would be great to show how your past and existing clients are happy about your products and services. You can include photos of you with your clients on your site for this will help in letting others know how well you deal with people. Remember to include captions after each testimonial photo with the names of your clients who are on the photo with you. Also, don't forget to advise your client that you will be posting their photo on your site.
9) Show community photos. If you've taken part of a community service, be sure to take a photo of you with the group or the project you've worked on. However, if you haven't done any community project, you may include a photo with you and your staff or your team instead.
10) Have your photos taken beside a prominent landmark. Landmarks help visitors to your website see you as part of your local community. It adds to your personality and credibility.
