When it comes to setting a business apart, imagery is everything. The moment a potential client clicks on your page they decide whether you are worth investing in. In fact, statistics show that 93 percent of selling a product is based on effective visuals. So if you haven’t taken your imagery seriously in your business, there is no better time to learn than now.
Standing out isn’t easy, but powerhouse photographer Emilee Ramsier of Treehouse Photo Studio in Atlanta knows a thing or two about creating unforgettable images. From capturing wild moments of the NBA’s annual All-Star weekend, to the most sophisticated homes on HGTV, Ramsier has built a career around telling a powerful story through the lens. Falling in love with photography at an early age, this Akron, Ohio, native has spent over 10 years perfecting her art of imagery.
“Not everyone who buys a camera should call themselves a photographer,” Ramsier says. “Like with anything, it is important to understand all aspects of your craft so that you can give quality work.”
So if you want to take your business to the next level, here are four secrets to getting your product the right exposure:
Always be authentic
With so many entrepreneurs budding in the business world, it is easy to get lost in the noise. Emilee suggests that the way to move past others is to always stay true to your voice. Your voice is what connects your audience to your message. Without it, you will create meaningless work that is not effective. Ways to find your voice is knowing your mission, vision, and audience of the company. Once you understand what makes you who you are, you can effectively portray that through imagery that will connect with customers. Create a secret Pinterest board and fill it with images that match your company’s vision. It will serve as a guide when you start to create great messaging.
Be consistent and know your colors
Another fundamental tip to imagery is to be consistent, especially with social media. If your brand has very bright colors for a logo and website design, keep those consistent colors throughout the messaging on social media. The most recognizable brands are ones who consistently use their signature color, symbol or filter no matter the photo.
In addition, don’t underestimate the value of color in ads and pictures. Colors are often associated with the persuasive way customers perceive your brand. For example, the color red portrays urgency, used in clearance and many fast-food restaurants like Wendy’s, yet blue portrays security, seen in banks like Chase. Find the right colors for your brand’s mission and use them well.
Small details matter
Many businesses make the mistake of not paying attention to detail when choosing pictures to represent their company. “Details matter, especially because people are becoming more aware of what makes a great photo,” says Ramsier. She suggests that companies should look out for:
- Lighting: Always use the most natural light (windows, etc.) to create the best photos. Learn how to use flash to capture images in darker lighting.
- Background: Be aware of what is in your background shot. You don’t want any other products to take away from portraying yours effectively.
- Focus: Keep the camera in focus when shooting photos so they don’t appear blurry.
- Placement: Don’t overlook wrinkles, price tags, and the way items are arranged in a photo. It is important to present the very best of your work.
Study all-star brands
There are reasons why brands like Nike, McDonald’s and Apple are kings when it comes to imagery. They know the value they bring to their customers and portray it through every piece of work they do. From a commercial to the packaging, every detail is thought out and consistent. Although companies like these have been around for decades, they never veered from their mission.
“There are many brands and people who get it right. Some of my favorites are Target and photographer Allen Cooley,” Ramsier says. “You just instantly know their work when you see it and that’s what strong imagery is about.”
To get even more inspiration for your images, visit Emilee Ramsier on her social @aladyfromakron and website.
