All About Image
By Lynne Damianos
Damianos Photography
| When looking at a brochure or Web site, what catches your eye first? Usually the photographs, right? There is a reason for the expression “a picture is worth a thousand words.” |  |
An effective photograph:
- Attracts attention
- Creates a positive response
- Shows style (traditional, edgy, fun)
- Evokes a reaction
- Creates a desire to learn more
- Gives brand recognition
- Communicates a company’s image
Depending on subject, the photo will:
- Highlight product quality
- Feature technical specifications
- Showcase a company’s facilities or personnel
- Identify a reason to use a product or service
- Introduce an individual or team
- Promote a new concept
Often I hear, “I’ll do it myself with my digital camera. The photograph will only be one inch high on our Web site. Quality doesn’t matter . . .” Nothing is further from the truth.
A photograph is often the first impression someone has of a company. An inferior photograph makes a company look inexperienced, or even cheap. To create a favorable impression, a photo needs to do more than just document something – it needs to “sing.” A poor visual indicates that a company does not value quality. Would you want to do business with a firm that cuts corners with their own image?
Consider photography an investment worth its weight in gold. For its space, a photograph can provide more information than text or audible message. Since 55% of human beings learn visually, photographs reach more people.
Hiring a professional photographer may at first seem expensive. Consider, however that a professional has the appropriate tools and expertise to do the best possible job in the shortest timeframe. That’s why I hired a roofer to replace my old roof – I was confident I’d get the results I needed. If I tried the roof work myself, I’d have spent too much of my precious time with a less than professional result.
What is your time worth? Have you ever regretted choosing a specialist? I doubt it. A professional does it right the first time, saving you time and money (not to mention stress). How is your company perceived? Dollar for dollar, using a professional for photography is a smart move. High quality photography means an improved company image, which can translate into more sales.
Fall 2004 -Volume 14, Number 4