Even an older high quality digital camera is still useful for creating images that speak to customer wants and describes your products and services
The growing use of images in social media has added a cherry on top to the sundae called web design. Instagram, Pinterest, not to mention Facebook (which is the platform on which the most images are shared) and Twitter have altered how website should display images and how visitors experience product and services.
Great images provide 2 unique values for your business or organization:
But if your business is starting out and starved for images, there are a few ways it can make the most of what it lacks. Here are a few suggestions which has been applied to Zimana as it has moved forward.
1. Get the best tech possible (and affordable) in the year of your purchase so you can make the most of the features while you have it
Business get cashed strapped for having video in place, but it is a good idea to select the best tech for the budget possible in the year of your purchase. Doing so will entice your team to make the most of the features during the lifecycle of the product.
Consider a good digital camera with at least 6 Megapixel resolution. Most smartphones at this writing contain 8 MP cameras, but their range is usually not as extensive as a regular camera. In fact, there are even DSLRs that are surprisingly affordable, thanks to increased capability of iPads and Android devices.
All in all, the camera you use does not have to be the latest model. For example, I've used a Panasonic Lumix I purchased in 2006 for video and pictures. There are way better cameras on the market now, able to take advantage of SDHC cards and even offer DSLR performance depending on model. But this camera served me well for basic images with enough size to be edited and used for the blog.
2. Adjust your usage to the platform selected
Consider the nature of how people share on a social media platform. Not every platform requires a comment with an image - Instagram and Pinterest focus on discovery, while Facebook and Google Plus permits more back and forth conversation. Twitter usage can blend the temporary nature of the Instagram and Pinterest posting with limited conversation similar to Facebook and Google Plus. Moreover, Twitter is "open" - meaning you can share with just about anyone and that may change the kinds of interactions you have compared to the aforementioned platforms.
In simple terms, study each platform prior to using a social media dashboard like Hootsuite or Tweetdeck. Understanding the difference between the platforms can give new ideas to how a photo can be reference or mentioned.
3. Make sure images convey how your product or service benefits others
Small businesses in particular tend to share a lot of text about their business or a bout the business owner. Instead, see to it to share images that convey more about how your business interacts with its customers or how customers lover your products. Even B2B firms that rely on the old formulaic "business team" photos would do better with images of the team together.
If there is some hesitancy as to picking a picture for a site, use A/B testing combined with a web analytics solution to determine which image influence your conversion rates the best. Ultimately think of original ways to convey what your brand has to offer.
