In the age of visual culture, millions of consumers are scrolling through numerous images on the Internet every day. Whether they are shopping online, browsing their social media networks, or simply surfing the web, their attention is immediately drawn to the visuals that are displayed on each site. Usually, these images are the first impression that consumers make of a company or product, so a photo can really make or break the sale. Convenience is a large factor for purchasing decisions, so businesses need to provide easy-to-navigate, modern websites to increase their e-commerce. Therefore, it is important to follow these six steps to create great photos for any e-commerce website in order to successfully engage your consumer and generate online revenue.
Know Your Audience
First thing’s first, know your target audience. A great photo can drive engagement and traffic to any website or product; it is important to know who your main market is so you can tailor your image content to their needs. For example, if your website specializes in selling hiking and camping equipment, you need to examine your target audience and guarantee that you are properly meeting their outdoor needs, safety concerns, and adventurous lifestyle through your photo. Using props in this instance is a good option; however, it shouldn’t distract from the product itself. Another example of this would be using a model to visually represent the size, fit, look, or function of the product. Once again, know your audience to appropriately cater to their e-commerce needs.
Focus on Image Content
A great photo for any website should follow these four standards: bold, unique, modern, and professional. If your content doesn’t meet these criteria, it is most likely going to be forgettable. It is proven that online stores with high definition images generate more sales and better brand perception. Photographing in realistic scenarios and using bold colors can improve your overall image content. Furthermore, showing multiple angle views of your product will significantly increase conversion rates. Your customer will feel more comfortable making a purchase if they have detailed views of the product from various angles. These images will help your customer better understand the size and quality of the item and build a foundation of trust.
Drive Emotion
The ultimate goal for any image on your website is to connect with your audience on a personal level. In other words, people are buying the experience you are selling, not the product. An easy way to capture emotion through your photograph is allowing the consumer to see the product in use. Whether that’s a model wearing the clothes you are selling or a baby peacefully sleeping in a crib that parents are considering, it is important to emotionally connect with your audience through images. Creating high-quality, personal photos for your website will be rewarding for your company.
Increase Size and Quality
High quality and detail-oriented images are more likely to drive sales and help with understanding and purchasing decisions. Large images with strong colors allow consumers to visually understand your product without physically having it in their hands. Hiring a professional photographer who has excellent skill, vision, and experience is one of the best investments you can make for your business.
Size: Websites with large product images are more likely to lead to sales than websites with small images. It’s important to make sure your pictures have a proper size to achieve high-resolution images. Generally, your online product image should be about 2000 pixels. Using image compression tools to optimize the image will add depth and value to your product.
Quality: Another key feature your company can focus on to produce high-resolution images is the zoom function. This reveals details of your product and eliminates questions that your consumer might have about the product. With this feature, customers are able to scroll over the image to zoom in on the product and get a closer look. Retouching an image is crucial while using this feature because you don’t want your customer zooming in to imperfections. Finally, allowing your viewer white space and giving them a clean, professional look is more suitable for most websites. A good balance between background and simplicity is a must.
Provide a Call to Action
People aren’t going to take further action unless the product photo on your website interests them. A great photo should lead to sales and cause your product to go viral. It is crucial to avoid confusion for your consumer and keep photos clutter free. The more memorable and eye-catching the photo, the more successful you will be in sales. Most consumers don’t read product details; instead, they base their decision on the photo that is presented before them. E-commerce will rise if the photo is straightforward and provides details on how to complete the transaction.
Represent Your Brand
Finally, a great photo on an e-commerce website must visually tell the story of your brand. It has to tie in with your website aesthetic and overall company image. Since the photo is communicating your value and brand, you want to attract customers who value your quality. Editing photos to better represent your brand is strongly recommended. Once you create a theme that your audience desires, your customers will build brand loyalty. Allow images to speak for themselves and attract customers through their content and quality. If the product image isn’t making a strong visual statement, consider rethinking how to communicate your brand properly through your e-commerce.
