Negative SpaceThere’s something very positive about negative space in an image. Whether it’s a big clear sky or wide open field, the empty–or negative–space can simplify your image and

provide a place to make the text and call-to-actions stand out.

Rule of ThirdsWhen composing a picture, having an off-center subject creates

balance and harmony in the image. This may go against the desire to make a subject the center of attention, but aligning the subject to

the far left, right, top, or bottom of a frame–a third of the way from the edge–actually draws the eye to it instead of putting it smack in the middle, forcing the eye there (notice where the focal point–the red bow-tie–is in the above image). Choose images that follow this rule

of thirds, and you may notice the negative space this could create as well–a photographic win win!

Include PeopleEveryone loves to be included! Pictures of people make the image more relatable. Viewers will be more likely to

engage with your digital marketing campaign if there are people in it because they can identify with the person. It

can be one person on a mountain or a team working together, but be sure they reflect your target audience’s

demographics so the viewer relates to the picture.

Positive EmotionWhen using people in your ad, have them show positive

emotion to really boost the likelihood of viewers engaging. Laughter is contagious and a smile can start a conversation, so by including these types of emotions

in your images, you can gain the same results.

Provide ContextWhat exactly are you offering? You can use images to make this very clear in your digital marketing. People process visuals much faster than text, so by showing someone enjoying your product or service you can instantly convey the right message–and a positive

one at that!

Complimentary ColorsThe image should be visually appealing, and the colors in the image are key to making this happen. Colors can also

help in creating a mood or deepening an emotion; for instance, blues are more calming while reds evoke more

passion. Use a color wheel to help choose colors that naturally go together for a richer aesthetic that could

increase the image value beyond those thousand words.

Change it UpDon’t become a victim of ad fatigue! People get bored after seeing the same visuals over and over again, so be sure to change them up to keep viewers interested. By changing colors, context, and people in your pictures, you will also be A/B testing to see what

works and what doesn’t in your ad campaigns. This can only improve future ads, and help to draw more people to your business.