We have all heard pictures tell a thousand words. On the Internet that is also true even if they are 72 dpi digital photos instead of print resolution. Yet, I often see retailer’s websites with poor digital photos of the interior of their store and products.
First impressions do count when shoppers land on a website and having the right photos can make a huge difference. Unlike the big chain stores most shoppers are unfamiliar with most specialty small businesses. For example: most consumers can easily visualize in their minds a picture of the products sold and type of service offered by Home Depot, Lowes, Walmart or Best Buy store because they frequently shop there more often than specialty stores.
Although the specialty store, such as flooring stores or camera shops, may have better quality products, competitive prices and outstanding service most shoppers don’t know that, so today most shoppers are using the web to research their local store options. Interior photos of the store and personnel on a website can make consumers feel much more confident in choosing that particular store, or the photo images can totally turn potential customers off. So why do so many storeowners skimp on store photos? Quality digital SLR cameras are not that expensive any more. Add a good low-light, wide angle lens with some lighting accessories can make a huge difference. As an alternative, there are a lot of wedding photographers in most communities that for a small investment can help storeowners capture great photos of their store, products, jobs and staff.
Take this simple test… which store shot impresses you more? (Click image for large view)
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| Store Shot A |
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| Store Shot B |
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Not just storeowners, but also manufacturers need to pay attention when creating roomscene product photos. Which of these two hardwood flooring roomscenes seems more appealing? (Click image for large view)
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| Roomscene Shot1 |
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| Roomscene Shot 2 |
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