Your brand's visual identity is more than an eye-catching logo or a beautifully designed website; it's the sum of all visual elements representing your business. In today's world, where first impressions are often formed through online content, the images you choose play a pivotal role in who you attract. Styled Stock images, when used in harmony with your original brand photoshoots, can help you create a captivating visual narrative that draws in your dream clients.
Styled Stock vs. Stock
Let's clear the air before we dive in, styled stock is not the same as regular stock. While regular stock can feel lifeless and cheesy, styled stock is a collection of curated images and videos designed for content creation. They have a personal touch that expands what your brand photoshoot provides.
Building Trust Through Visual Consistency
For business owners aiming to attract their dream clients, trust is an invaluable asset. A consistent visual style in your content, including brand photography mixed in with styled stock images, helps build trust.
When your audience recognizes your brand's aesthetic, they are more likely to engage with your content.
The Allure of Beautiful Styled Stock Images
It's tempting to gravitate toward the most aesthetically pleasing styled stock images. While these images are undeniably beautiful, the key question to ask is: do they align with your brand? The heart of successful image selection is about crafting a narrative that seamlessly integrates with your visual identity.
Here are the essential aspects to consider...
1. Brand Colors
Your brand's colour palette is a fundamental component of its identity. When selecting stock images, look for ones that incorporate your brand colours. This subtle alignment reinforces brand consistency and recognition.
2. Contextual Relevance
Does the image or video reflect the content you're discussing? If you're sharing tips on home organization, a picture of a well-organized workspace or a tidy living room is more relevant than a group of women having coffee. The actions within the image should also harmonize with your message. If your content is about determination, an image of someone working diligently can reinforce your narrative.
3. Value Addition
Every image you use should enhance the value of your content. It should either illustrate a point, evoke emotion, or create engagement. Choose images that don't just fill space but contribute meaningfully to your message.
4. Prioritize Quality
High-quality images not only look more professional but also convey a sense of commitment to your brand and audience.
5. Consider Diversity
Diversity in styled stock images can help your brand connect with a broader audience and showcase your company's message as an inclusive business.
6. Experiment and Adjust
Don't be afraid to experiment with different images to see what resonates most with your audience. Analyze the performance of your content and adjust your image choices accordingly.
BONUS: Adhere to Your Brand Style Guide (and Create One If You Don't Have It)
Creating a brand style guide is pivotal. It meticulously outlines your brand's visual identity, incorporating your colour palette, favoured image types, and aesthetic preferences. This comprehensive document becomes the compass for you and your expanding team, as well as vendors, assuring that everything aligns perfectly with your brand's identity. This is why it is an integral component of our Brand Development and Visual Identity service package.
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In today's digital world, every aspect of your brand matters. As business owners, your choice of stock images is a potent tool for connecting with your dream clients. By selecting images based on their alignment with your brand's colours, contextual relevance, action compatibility, and value addition to your content, you can create a brand identity that's beautiful, deeply engaging, and trustworthy. So, let your brand's unique story unfold through images that speak your language, and watch as your dream clients are drawn to your compelling visual narrative.
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