Visual Content Is A Must, Even If You Don't Have A Designer

Today's web is visual.

Video is big. In fact 87% of marketers are using it as a tool according to new data released by Hubspot last month. The vast majority of these marketers say it positively impacts their results.

There's a reason everyone's embracing video. If it's done well, it catches attention and keeps it. This classic Johnny Walker commercial is a perfect example:

If you don't have the capabilities to produce video (hint: you do if you have a smart phone), then make sure you start incorporating images.

But Wait, I Don't Have A Designer!

In an ideal world, everyone would have a designer at their disposal to select or create visuals for their content. Unfortunately, most of us don't live in an ideal word.

I mean, if I had a nickel for every time I found myself scrolling through stock image hell looking for that perfect shot, I would be rich.

Thankfully, Pamela Wilson just wrote a great post on Copyblogger about how to create visual content when you don't have resources. First off, make sure you complement your written content with images. Second, take her advice, it's smart:

Make sure to only use images you're allowed to use: We love using free stock photos from Pixabay or Pexels.
Use images that look real: We all have seen the corporate blog with endless horrible images...I know we've been guilty a time or two. Don't give in!
Don't Crop Heads Out Of Images: I defer to Pamela here: "Using a “headless” photo represents a lost opportunity. You see, as humans, we’re hard-wired to respond to faces. From the time we’re babies, we learn to “read” and respond to the expressions made by our caregivers."

There's a ton more good stuff in her post. I recommend you check it out.