6 Ways to Beef Up Your Blog With Images

News flash: Endless streams of blog text are B-O-R-I-N-G! Business blogs are no exception. In fact, the best content strategy for blogs includes images as part of the process! We’re not talkin’ any old ho-hum images here.

Well chosen, high-quality blog images are more than “icing on the content cake.” They create instant polish and clout while driving your message home.

Finding Images That Set Your Blog Apart:

1. Complement Your Content – Treat your images as content. Take some time to consider what kind of image will enhance your message and, at the same time, catch a reader’s eye and pull them in.
2. Let Go of the Literal – Don’t assume you must be literal in your image choices. Write down keywords that immediately come to mind. Then, think beyond that list. For example, if your post is about how to deal with anger management at work, think beyond the easy “angry businesswoman” images that come to mind. Perhaps look up images of pressure cookers, hair on fire, angry cartoon characters, etc. Certainly, the quirky approach may not be appropriate if your subject matter is serious. But, if you can build in a visual surprise, it will make your blog’s content “sing!”
3. Get Over Google – While Google Images are tempting, be aware that many images are copyright protected and overused. Certainly, they work at times. But, all too often, this is the first step for (lazy) bloggers.
4. Embrace Your Inner Shutterbug
   Your own images are sometimes best—especially if you’re covering an event or blogging about something you have exclusive access to. Rules of thumb: Good lighting, appropriate cropping and a steady hand. If your images are blurry and weak, leave `em out. But, if they’re sharp and well composed, go for it! Also, don’t assume images taken with your phone are out of the question. Mobile devices have come a long way! Just be sure to snap several shots to ensure that one comes out clean and crisp!
5. Get Emotional – As with writing, images can evoke emotion and hit readers in the gut. Consider the emotional side of your blog topic. Then, jot down keywords around that emotion. Review resulting images alongside your copy. Do they drive home the emotion? Pick the one that hits you in the gut!
6. Invest in Professional Images – Sure, it’s easy to take the “free” route but try to set aside a few dollars each month to purchase high-quality stock imges. Try them out in a few posts and you’ll soon see the overall “shine” of your blog really improve!

Photo Resources:

• Dreamstime – This is my “go to” site these days. Dreamstime just nails it with their pricing, selection and well-organized image database.
• iStock Photo – iStock has significantly increased its prices in recent years, but their quality is still spectacular. If I can’t find what I’m looking for on Dreamstime, iStock is usually my next stop.
  

  

• BigStock – BigStock’s selection is very unique. Like iStock, however, their prices have gone up but are still reasonable.
• Compfight– Free Flickr image search. Every now and then I’ll find something here. Be aware that not all images are available for commercial use. Pay attention to their filters and options to find an image safe for your blog.

What size to buy? Many stock photo sites offer multiple sizes and resolutions for their images. Because the web only requires 72dpi, you can usually purchase the smallest size and come out with killer quality.

So…what new images come to mind for your blog?

Deana Goldasich

Deana Goldasich, CEO and founder of Well Planned Web, plans and implements Content Marketing to help clients nurture leads, market their expertise and create an impactful presence online.

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