To effectively market your small business, you need eye-catching photography front and center. Two excellent options can load your marketing strategy with images that pop; high quality stock or commercial photography.
Commercial or Stock;
You Win Either Way
Both commercial and
stock photography convey a tone of professionalism and pique customer interest. A powerful stock image
on your brochure cover or a homepage slideshow of commercial photography engages
readers and visitors.
Commercial
and stock both draw attention to your marketing collateral, but they have their
differences. It comes down to your small business’ wants, needs and budget.
Controlling Your
Company Image
A
key advantage of commercial photography is control. You determine what the camera lens captures:
- You control your company’s unique image and portrayal
- You control exactly how your brand is built going forward
Commercial
photography is more expensive, but you own the photos free and clear. If the
money isn’t there or you want to invest elsewhere, stock photography is the
ideal alternative.
Your Company Image is
in-Stock
Carefully chosen,
compelling stock images can give you the same results as commercial
photography. Among
many factors to consider in the stock selection process is relevance. Choose
stock photos that tie in to your company, product or service.
Services
like iStock boast a catalog of millions of photos by category. You don’t need
to be an expert photographer. Simply browse the libraries and ask yourself; “Do I want this image representing my
company?” Trust your judgment, instinct and keep an eye out for:
- Out-of-date or general poor quality photos
- Photos featuring “overposed” or stiff-looking people
- Similar photos being used by your competition
Stock
photos come with a lower cost, but there is a price spectrum. Spend on the
higher end of this scale. These photos are less likely to have been purchased
by competitors, making them more exclusive.
Stock-only or
commercial-only strategies might not work for you. Not a problem; simply
combine the two.
Lead
your direct mail with a customized commercial photo, then fill out the piece with
corresponding stock images. This stock/commercial team-up gives you budget
flexibility and a commanding company message.
Choose YOUR Best
Option
Your photography is on
the front line of your company’s sales efforts. You know your
business and industry. You know what works and what turns potentials away. Whether
you hire a commercial photographer, utilize the boundless supply of polished
stock photos or unite the two, just apply your expertise to the process for a
strategy that sells.
