Does your photography pass its warrant of fitness? - Campbell Squared
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21 Jan Does your photography pass its warrant of fitness?

Posted at 10:48h in Communications, Digital by

They say a picture is worth a thousand words. What more reason to make sure your photography hits the mark and becomes a strong brand asset?

But do you know how to identify a hero photo from one that’s ho-hum?

C2 has prepared an easy checklist for you to ensure your photography captures all your best angles.  

Do you have permission to use the photo? 

We’ve all done it. We’ve found the perfect photo on Google. We’ve copied it straight over, and voila! Job done? Not quite.

Most photos on Google are subject to copyright laws. As a rule of thumb, always assume you don’t have permission to repurpose the photo. If in doubt, ask.     

You may feel that doesn’t leave you with many options, especially if engaging a photographer or taking photos yourself is out of the question or the budget.

However, there are websites that provide high-quality, royalty-free photography that you can use for your work without having to credit a photographer. Try Pexels for a start, and if that doesn’t suit your needs, get in touch with us. We’ve got a few tricks up our sleeve.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for, check out a paid stock photography site. It will likely be cheaper than hiring a photographer.

Does your photography create a positive brand experience? 

Working for a tech company shouldn’t limit your images to just technology. Think about your values, and your purpose.

Often, these involve people. Your colleagues and your customers, maybe. Putting faces to brands can create connection and bring some personality and fun to your front-facing image. Animals are effective too!

Put yourself in your audiences’ shoes too. How might they relate to the pictures, and the people, you’re using? Do they feel represented? If diversity is a core value, have you put your best foot forward?

How about the environment? Here in Aotearoa New Zealand, we have a unique landscape and culture that is hard to find in stock photos. It’s even more reason to engage a local photographer to create a bespoke collection for your brand, setting you apart. We know a couple who might be able to help.

Are you using high-quality, consistent photography?

In 2022  there is no excuse for low-resolution photos. Pixelated, blurry, or poorly composed photography can be detrimental to your brand. In many cases, no photo is better than a poor-quality photo.

Chances are you’re carrying a reasonable camera in your back pocket – your phone.

It may not be the right snap for large scale print, or the hero image on your website, it might do the trick for social media.

And if you take one piece of advice from this: go easy on the filters.

Have you got the go-ahead from your subject?

Don’t assume someone smiling for the camera is the green light to use their picture on billboards or on your annual report.

If you’re arranging a photoshoot, make sure the talent signs a release form. Templates are available online, and C2 can help you personalise one for use for today and tomorrow.

Also, never use a photo of a child without the written permission of their parent or legal guardian and check with landowners before taking snaps on private land.

The C2 tīma is here to help you. Drop us a line if you think your imaging needs some TLC.

After all, if a picture is worth a thousand words, C2 wants to help you get your narrative out there – in your way.