One of the more common mistakes I see in web design these days is the overuse of stock photography.
It is an instant downgrade on what could have been a great bit of design.
You could have fantastic headings, logos, navigation, useability and copy.
And then plonking ‘that’ cheesy businessperson with the big grin, can instantly unravel all the hard work.
When possible, use original artwork. If you have the resources available, get illustrations done or have a photoshoot done.
If the budget, time or situation doesn’t allow for this, and you need to delve into the boring cookie cutter world of stock photography.
But all is not lost, careful selection is the key.
Try and avoid stereotypical or clichéd images. Meaningless generic images are a definite no no.
Photos to avoid:
Try and find images, that aren’t necessarily so obvious. Looks for subtext and juxtaposition.
The images don’t have to spell out exactly what you are typing to communicate, you have copy for that.
Treat the images not as decoration, but as tone and emphasis. Think of it as a visual highlighter.
Look for honesty, natural expressions and good lighting.
Photos to look for:
Remember the perception of quality of your site and its content will be very much affected by the images and photography you choose.
Roger Sho Gerhmann
Creative Director