Finding stock images used to be all consuming and be a bit of a never ending rabbit hole. This changed when we discovered Unsplash. Here’s tips on how we put together a collection of stock images for a website design, and when to use stock photography.

When to use stock photography

One of my favorite uses of stock images is to fill in the gaps. I often have clients that have their own photography, or have hired a brand photographer, but we find a specific need. Maybe we need images of a desk, or a texture for the background. Stock can be a great way to find a subject or color that you need to accent the rest of the brand.

If you are just starting out, and need your website done before you are ready to invest into brand photography, this is another great reason to use stock. In this case, finding images that are consistent is really important. All the photography should have similar qualities to keep your website feeling cohesive.

The video below goes more into this, and shows exactly how I put together a collection.

How to Choose the Best Stock Photography

Regardless of where you look for stock images, you’ll want to make sure the photography is good quality, and looks professional. Beyond that, it gets a little more subjective in choosing.

1. Make sure all the images are consistent with each other and with any brand photography you are using on your website.
2. Be sure to keep colors in mind. If you have a soft muted website and you choose a stock image with a woman in a bright red dress, that’s going to completely change how the website comes across.
3. Keep your brand style in mind. If your brand is feminine and flowery, keep this delicate vibe in mind when choosing photos.
4. Pay careful attention to the details. If you are a corporate business coach, the people represented should be dressed in a way your clients might dress, and be relatable. Sometimes an image might have a screen or a book. Pay attention to the title of the book, or what is on that screen. This little things all contribute to your brand image.

If you have questions, send me a note.