Stock Photos: Striking the Balance Between Real-Feel and Fake-Fest

Website Design

So, last week I dropped a Uhlsee Pro tip on the “magical” world of stock photos for your website (and all your marketing bits). Let’s be real, stock photos can be a lifesaver. We can’t all hire a pro photographer, and oftentimes we need those quick and easy images on the fly. So, let’s check out some ways to stay on the right side of that line (check out some examples at the end 😉).

  • Say no to “Smiling Businessman with Briefcase”: Make sure your images align with your brand’s personality. PLEASE stop using overused and cheesy stock images that scream “fake” louder than the poorly dubbed movie my hubby and I watched last night.
  • Connect with your audience: Use images that reflect your brand’s values, culture, and target audience. Your visuals should tell a story that resonates with your visitors and makes them feel a connection with your brand.
  • Be that special little flower: Yep, your brand is unique, and your visuals are a great way to reflect what sets you apart from the competition. It could be your quirky team, pet-friendly office, or behind-the-scenes magic. Let your images capture the essence of your brand’s personality.
  • Don’t be a copycat: I love finding inspiration from other websites. But we can’t simply replicate what’s already out there. Create a distinct visual identity that makes your website memorable and instantly recognizable. You could even be the trendsetter, not the follower.
  • The power of originality: Invest in professional photography or create your own high-quality visuals (some of you can work magic with the “portrait” mode on your phones). Bonus points if you can take them in your own environment. Custom images give your brand credibility and make an impression on visitors. If you take nothing else away from this article, please remember this: a pixelated image is like a bad hair day—best avoided.
  • Keep it natural: Opt for images that feel authentic and organic. Run away from overly staged and overly posed pictures that make visitors cringe. Let your visuals capture the genuine moments and emotions that represent your brand.
  • Have fun with it: Just about every business can have some level of fun and playfulness with your visuals. Whether through vibrant colors, quirky illustrations, unexpected elements, or more comfortable poses (have you seen the one on my page with my kitchen sink in the background?), let your brand’s personality shine and make your website a genuine experience.

Your website’s visuals are basically a window to your brand’s soul. So, choose wisely.

Need help with your website? Your brand? Or just need someone to offer some thoughts on what you’ve already chosen? I’m here for you! sara@uhlsee.com

[If viewing these images on a mobile device, gently swipe up on the text of each picture to read the full comment.] 👇🏼

The folded-arms small business owner pose is overplayed (guilty as charged!), so let’s find fresh ways to capture your brand’s essence.
This, on the other hand, gives you a sneak peek into the business owner’s story. It takes you on a journey through their world, showcasing their craft, dedication, and passion.
I don’t know about you but I’m always smiling while working on my computer at a coffee shop. Maybe it’s all the caffeine?
Here is something more realistic. As she smiles she also leans in a bit as though she is laughing. It feels more natural and makes me want to know what she is laughing at.
Please….just don’t. The classic “innovative” PowerPoint image. Occasionally it can be somewhat helpful in a presentation, IF it gets a serious editing intervention. Let’s face it, we’ve seen this one too many times. Please spare your audience from another generic visual assault.
Hmmm….yeah…cause all coders and designers sit in a mysteriously dark office while they work. Even if yours do, think about your audience. Will this resonate or just feel creepy?
This is a photo taken by my client on her iPhone. She is not a photographer. But she can put together an incredible charcuterie board, am I right?
Same client, same phone. Don’t you want to just eat everything on this plate right now? These two images really put her audience into the experience she is creating and give them a feel for what magic deliciousness they can expect from her.
Am I the only one feeling the cringe factor? The dog is cute, but it’s like he’s using telepathy to beg for rescue from these awkward humans, with their unsettling gazes, coffee, laptops, and iPads. This staged setup could use a generous dose of authenticity, don’t you think?
This tells the story of a fun-loving workplace that embraces furry friends without resorting to forced smiles or eerie stares. It’s a genuine portrayal of the joyful atmosphere and pet-friendly culture that sets us apart.
Oh, the classic “everyone is smiling while reviewing a graph” scenario, a true masterpiece of staged moments! We’ve all been there, right? Yeah…no thanks.
This picture feels a little more real. The woman looks natural, not posing too much, and the background is blurry so she stands out. It looks like the photo was taken while she was talking, making it seem like she’s in the middle of her presentation.
This one falls a bit flat. It doesn’t quite entice me to buy wine. With just a generic setup of wine and cheese against a fake backdrop, it doesn’t give me any kind of story.
Much better. This gives me the feeling of the experience I can have at your winery or that I can create with your wine.
I can’t help but chuckle at this one. The guy’s smoldering gaze, paired with the woman leaning in closely to point at something on the laptop, doesn’t exactly scream “work.” It feels more like a setup for a romantic comedy where he’s about to ask her out any moment now.
The woman’s slightly messy hair, natural appearance, and being caught mid-sentence make it feel like a genuine conversation taking place. I could see these two in any office.

This is a gem! Imagine if your business is as quirky and unique as this photo. Doesn’t she make you want to meet her? You can just tell she’s got an amazing story to share. She’s like the life of the party, and being around her would be a guaranteed good time!

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