Do you often encounter the vexing issue of blurry website photos? You’re not alone. When uploading holiday snaps to platforms like Snapfish, a frustrating warning about low resolution may spring up. This warning essentially means your image isn’t sharp enough to print due to a low file size.
This annoying problem isn’t just confined to printing photos — it can plague your website too. Let’s explore how to avoid such issues and master the art of website photography.
Keeping Website Photos Sharp: No More Blurry Pictures
Consider this a friendly caution for your website photography, especially when it comes to website headshots. Let’s say you’ve hired a professional photographer. They’re doing their thing, capturing the best shots they can. That’s great — they know their craft. But the catch lies in how these photos will be used on your website.
Unless clearly communicated, the photographer may not consider the intended use for the photos. After receiving the final proofs, you start cropping them for your website (or your developer does), and — oh no, the images end up blurry!
But don’t panic. The outcome depends on how you display your photos. Small thumbnails in the sidebar? No problem. A full-width hero image, like on my homepage? This is where pixel density becomes crucial.
Pixel Density: The Secret to Clear Website Photography
Digital images are comprised of pixels — minuscule dots that together make up your picture. A small file size means fewer pixels. So, when you zoom or crop to fit a hero section, the image quality takes a hit.
To ensure sufficient pixel density for all the cropping, you need to embrace the following strategy:
Website Photography with Room to Breathe: The Empty Space Strategy
Communicate with your photographer that some photos will be used as banner images on your website. Ask them to pull back and take loose shots with plenty of empty space around you, the subject. This strategy guarantees that your cropped image will remain clear and sharp, enhancing the overall look of your website.
This is crucial. A blurry header image doesn’t appear professional and can be distracting, detracting from your carefully crafted website design. For instance, the header image on Aimée C Gianni’s website effectively uses empty space. The additional space on one side also leaves room for a headline introducing herself.
And if you’re worried about previously taken photos without sufficient space, don’t fret! They can still work wonders for your website. You simply need a website design that allows images next to text, rather than full-width photos. The outcome can be equally attractive. Check out Kym Showers’ website for an example of this approach.
Creating a Visually Pleasing Background for Your Website Headshots
Your backdrop can make or break your website headshots. A cluttered, busy background with excessive details or colors can divert attention from you, the main focus. Choose a non-distracting background — a brick wall, for instance.
Heather Frazier’s website showcases an excellent example of a clean, bright background, enhancing the overall page’s aesthetic appeal.
Selecting the Perfect Location for Website Photography
One of the most frequent questions I receive is, “What’s the best place for a photo shoot? Inside or outside? Casual or professional?” The answer largely depends on your professional identity.
Are you a medical professional turned coach, aiming for a polished look in a business suit and office setting? Or are you the relatable mom-coach, favoring a casual vibe in a comfortable setting like a coffee shop or a cozy living room? Think about how you would want to present yourself to a new client and reflect that in your website photography.
Your Next Website Photography Resource
Now you know how to get clear, professional images for your website. Remember, make sure your photographer captures a few pulled-back shots, avoid a busy background, and give the photos to your website designer in the highest resolution. Then, you’re sure to have crisp, engaging photos that enhance your site’s appeal and credibility!
But there’s more to great website photography than just crisp, clear images.
How you present yourself in these photos can significantly influence how visitors perceive you and your brand. If you’re wondering about what to wear for your website photos, I’ve got you covered. Read here for what to wear for your website photoshoot to build trust with your audience.
