Knowing Which Photos Are Appropriate Online

You may understand that graphic images that accompany your content is effective and goes a long way to enhance your content. However, it is essential that you understand which photos you should use and which ones you shouldn’t.

Using photos in your social media profiles

It is a known fact that when you include an appropriate photo in your social media profile(s), people will pay more attention to you online. On the other hand, if your photo is not appropriate (unprofessional, crass, etc), it will get you noticed but you will be getting the wrong type of attention from your online connections. No doubt, that is something that you will want to avoid. However, you don’t need to worry about whether you are capable of choosing the right type of photo because there are guidelines that can help you. It is important for you to remember that your social media profile and photo are representations of you, your brand, and your reputation.

Photographs for your social media profiles

In this case, you need to keep in mind that it is not sufficient (or appropriate) to merely upload a graphic image that you want associated with your social media profile. It has to be the perfect graphic image. When it comes to your social media profiles, it is important for people to be able to see your photograph. It humanizes you and it makes it easier for you to develop a relationship with the other person. As always, relationships are dependent on a human connection. Without the photo, exactly what will connect you with the other person in the beginning? The photo is more important than you may think so it is very important that you choose the right one.

Pairing your photo with your activities

As a business owner, there is little to no chance that you are sitting around and twittling your thumbs instead of making things happen for your business. You probably are making tremendous efforts to do everything possible to bring your business to the next level. Those efforts may include webinars, conferences, networking meetings, and other professional events. When it comes to being involved with events, your photo is especially important because it serves as a branding tool for you and for your business. 

Visit your photo periodically

Many people upload a photo of themselves once and then never think about it again. If enough time passes and enough changes with the person’s appearance, that it definitely a bad idea. You should periodically consider whether it is time to change the photo for a new (and, at that point, more appropriate one). Of course, needless to say, you shouldn’t be doing that too often. However, every few years, you should scrutinize your photo and decide if it is time to change it. An added bonus is that it will hold the attention of your online connections. 

Keep it fresh for your online connections

The graphic images that you share on your social media profiles should always be appropriate; however, that doesn’t mean that they shouldn’t also be interesting at all times. It is important to continue to capture the attention of your online connections and keep their attention. You want them to be interested enough to keep checking back to see what you have uploaded next. Of course, it is important to remember to always exercise discretion. Your photos should always be appropriate. 

What to do with cover photos

In addition to your profile photo, you may wish to consider using a cover photo as well. You would pair your cover photo with the calls-to-action that you want to use with your content. The cover photo must be a really strong representation of you and of your business. When it comes to the size of the photo, a good guideline for you is that the height of the photo should be about one-third the dimension of the width. If you are taking care of the photo yourself, make sure that it looks as professional as possible (decent cropping, high resolution, etc). Another thing to remember is not to crowd your cover photo with  a lot of words. Of course, it goes without saying that your cover photo should match the rest of your profile(s).

Choose and appropriate color theme

When it comes to your social media profile(s), colors are critical. The aesthetic element touches upon the emotional connection that you have with the other person. Your color theme is your brand so remember to stick with it. Unlike the photo, you don’t want to change the colors frequently because those colors are associated with what you represent and what you want to share. When it comes to actually choosing the colors, make sure that you come up with colors that are not overwhelming. Soft is definitely a better way to go.

Conclusion

Your choice of photo is extremely important when it comes to your social media profile(s). That photo will leave a lasting impression and you must be sure to choose the perfect photo for that setting. Expressing some creativity (within reason) is definitely a good idea. You want your photo to cause the person on the other end to have a positive emotional reaction. Remember, your photo is your brand’s calling card. Make sure that it has the desired effect.

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