How To Use Stock Imagery For Your Personal Brand and Business

I don’t know about you, but when I started my business (or any of them for that matter!), I had an entire $0 budget going for me.

Over time I put the pieces of my business together and am still doing that! But I utilized as many free things as possible — free gallery sites, editing software (oh gosh this was rough), used + cheap (notttt good) lenses, and TONS of free webinars on business, photography, and marketing.

I even used free stock images for the longest time as an author!

As a professional branding photographer (and brand expert), author, speaker, and Coach… I sincerely believe having on brand imagery is SO important. I have seen the difference of impact from images I’ve downloaded from Pexels versus images I’ve created with and for myself.

BUT ** I also recognize not everyone is able to hire a professional branding photographer off the bat.

While stock photos may not be your first thought or idea for how to grow brand awareness, they can be resourceful and helpful for branding + commercial use. But you should know a little of what you’re doing.

1. Before knowing what stock photos to use + where, you need to ensure your brand vision, style, and mission. What is the voice + story of your brand? What are the feeeeeelings you hope people experience when encountering your services / products? What is your personality?
   

2. Consider the MOOD of your brand, so when you’re using stock imagery, you are matching that mood. Is it complex, rich, lots of colors? Is it bright, light, clear, crisp? Look for imagery that matches those experiences.
   

3. Make sure your aesthetic for your brand is consistent, easy on the eyes — potential clients + customers rely on a brand who is dependable and consistent.
   

4. Use an app like Canva to make the image your own — place a quote or copy over it that makes sense with the caption or blog, like I did up above :)
   

5. Use them: as an announcement by overlaying text; to let your community (blog, email, social media) something..maybe a tips, a quote, a promo, or an update; on your next email / newsletter header; put it on a brochure

I have a gallery of free stock images I’ve been working on over the year. Feel free to download them:

I also have a Patreon for as low as $3 where you have access to ongoing stock images, masterclasses for branding your business, and so much more!