How to take pictures for a blog
One of the hardest parts of blogging and producing consistent visual content is balancing the creation time for graphics and the . So when you’re thinking about how to take pictures for a blog remember these tips on taking better photos.
You don’t have to be a genius to learn how to take a photo.
Point phone camera at something and take photo.
But…
What do you take a photo of?
What angle, setting, lighting…
How can I make it look better?
I really hate it when people ask me “how to take better blog photos” because what does better actually mean?
Do you want:
- it to have better lighting
- better quality photos
- a better composition
- a better conversion
- a better style – yes, visual marketing is complicated but so much simpler once you have a plan (don’t worry this is where I normally lose a few people 😉 )
How can you learn how to take better blog photos if you don’t already know what you’re trying at achieve?
Want to learn how to take better blog photos?
Step 1: Have a goal! What are you photographing?
Most bloggers don’t even get this far. You need to ask yourself why you’re taking the photo in the first place. Do you want to connect (stop the scroll), to create desire for a product/service/affiliate, or educate them on something.
Let’s break that down even further.
Creating a connection through your photos
This is the number one way to use photography in your blog. It helps your viewer stop and think their in the right place. This can done but showing like minded people. ie busy stressed out homeschooling mom’s will connect with other busy stressed out homeschooling moms. Instagramer @kids_and_the_commute is a great example of this.
At the heart of it we are a sociable species and who want to feel they aren’t alone. So who are you’re people and how can you show them that?
Creating desire
Yes, we all want to make a little money, and this is the easiest way to do it. Showing your viewer something they want will increase your conversions, but you’ll need to show them the result. No one cares about a super toothbrush, it’s the winning smile they want. The toothbrush is the how they get there. This is hardest as you’ll need to both know you’re audience and use a range of photography techniques like composition, lighting and visual marketing psychology in order to create a ad worthy photo.
Educating them
Showing a simple step by step, increases their understanding and desire to complete it. This take the least about of photography techniques, as keeping it real seems to improve the viewers belief in them achieving it. Making this is easiest place for beginners to start.
Step 2: Plan it
I’m a firm believer of planning, however this can be anything from a quick chat, a scribble on a notepad to following a strategy plan.This is when you work out the how. Want to wow a mom with your fabulous dark and rich brownie recipe? Then you’ll want your signature feature shot that will create desire (more clicks) and you can use as you’re blog featured image. A step by step educational series on how to create them and picture of your family loving them to create a connection.
Step 3: Shoot it
Now it over to you to but it together.Have you picked the best composition for your subject?Is it well lit?
Step 4: Ask for feedback
You’ll never make progress if you don’t know what went well and what could be improved. You’ll need bff honesty for this. Facebook groups won’t help you if you don’t know whats wrong in the first place. So ask someone you trust or tag me (@robynsacademy) and I’ll help you out.Remember it more important to get the context right than how technically correct it is. I’ve seen many technically correct photos that have no story or impact, focus on what feels right and being consistent in your approach.
