Stock photography is super convenient, and in some cases, it gets the job done. However, using it as the main source of imagery on your website can backfire. Why? Because it can come across as inauthentic—and people can spot that a mile away. When your visuals look generic or disconnected from your brand, it creates doubt instead of trust.
The demand for high-quality visuals has skyrocketed, and with it, the supply of stock photography has grown. Stock photo libraries have come a long way, shifting from outdated studio setups to trendy lifestyle scenes. But have you noticed how easy it is to spot stock photos on a website? Or wondered why, with millions of images available, the same ones keep popping up everywhere?
If your website is filled with stock photos that don’t reflect your brand’s style, tone, or mission, it risks looking unoriginal and impersonal. On the flip side, when your images align perfectly with your brand’s colours, message, and vibe, something magical happens—that magic is trust. Let’s take a look at some unique options that will make your business stand out in the market.
Why Replace Stock Photography With Original Imagery?
Whether someone meets you in person or visits your website for the first time, their initial impression sticks so it’s important that the images on your home page reflect who you are as a brand. Stock photos are tempting because they’re quick and easy, but they come with trade-offs that could cost you. How?
1. Stock Photography Can Threaten Your Customer’s Trust
Trust is the heart of every business relationship. If your website comes across as generic or inauthentic, it’s tough for visitors to connect with your mission, believe in your expertise, or get excited about your product. Using custom photos of your team, workspace, or product adds a personal touch, shows you’re the real deal and builds credibility.
2. Stock Photography May Not Speak For Your Brand
Your brand’s look and feel comes down to everything working together—colours, fonts, images, and the way you communicate. Stock photos can throw things off. They might not match your colours or style, and sometimes the people in them just don’t feel genuine. When things don’t line up, your website can feel a bit off and less polished.
3. Stock Photos Feel Overused
We’ve all seen those typical images of men in suits shaking hands or gathered around a computer screen. They’re everywhere, and because of that, they don’t stand out – and they’re even a bit of a joke. These photos rarely capture what makes your business special or connect with your audience on a personal level.
4. Stock Photos Don’t Tell Your Story
Stock images are made for broad, generic purposes—not your business’s specific goals or message. A photo of two people smiling in a boardroom might seem fine at first glance, but it doesn’t reflect the unique qualities or values that make your company different. If the image doesn’t feel authentic, it can make your business come across as out of touch.
5. Stock Photos Can Lack Diversity
Many businesses want their visuals to reflect diversity and inclusion, but stock photos have historically fallen short in this area. While some platforms now offer more inclusive options, a lot of stock imagery still doesn’t capture the variety of people and experiences that make up your team or customer base, or the images are cliched and stereotypical.
Stand Out From Your Competition With Unique Photography
Want your website to stand out? Custom photos can make all the difference. Picture swapping that generic “men in a boardroom” shot for your team, in a casual office setting, with your brand’s unique touches in the background. Custom images let you share your story, show off your personality, and connect with the people you want to reach. It’s not just about looking professional—it’s about being memorable and real.
Simplifying Your Visuals for Maximum Impact
People can only take in so much at a time, so your visuals need to be clear and easy to follow. Keep things simple—choose colours, textures, and subjects that support your message without stealing the spotlight. Eye-catching images are great, but they should always work with your message and feel like they belong to your brand.
Which Photos Are Best For Your Business?
Not all types of photography are created equal. Think about it—fashion photography is completely different from food photography. So, when planning the visual imagery for your business, take a moment to look at what your competitors feature on their websites. What can you learn from their photos? What’s the standard in your industry, and what would help you stand out?
Whether you use a professional photographer, you take the photos yourself, or you use that Instagram star in your company, these photography tips will help you create the best authentic content for your digital marketing:
- Keep the focus on the star. Whether it’s a product or a person, make sure nothing in the background steals attention. For example, if you’re promoting plumbing services, highlight your technician or the cutting-edge tools they use, not the background environment.
- Show products in action. Take photos that reflect how and where your customers actually use your products. A slow cooker, for instance, belongs on a kitchen counter, while patio furniture looks best in an inviting backyard setup.
- Highlight your team. Your business is made up of real people—so show them off! Professional portraits and candid shots of your staff in action add personality and authenticity to your brand, which is much better than stock images of generic faces.
- Frame it right. Make sure everything important fits neatly in the shot. For example, in a portrait, don’t accidentally cut off someone’s head, shoulders, or other key details. Keep the composition clean and complete.
- Take more photos than you think you need. Not every shot will be perfect, especially if you’re not using a professional photographer. Experiment with different angles and perspectives, and take plenty of pictures. Even a pro will have hundreds of options to choose from.
- Make a video while you’re shooting. Behind-the-scenes content is great for getting engagement on social media and often captures outtakes that are pure gold.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll create visuals that are not just professional, but also memorable and uniquely you.
Photoshoot Ideas for Professionals
Whether you work in an office, on the road, in a trade, or from your home, professional photos can elevate your brand and showcase your expertise. When working with a professional photographer, it’s important to start with a shot list and a creative direction for the images so they can determine the style you’re looking for. Here are some photoshoot ideas tailored to different work environments:
For Professionals in an Office
- Desk Setup: Showcase a clean, organized workspace with branded elements like a mug, pen, or notebook. Feel free to step out from behind that desk as well to make you seem more approachable.
- Collaboration Shots: Capture moments of teamwork during meetings or brainstorming sessions.
- Action Shots: Document yourself typing, making a call, meeting with a client, or presenting—images that show you in action.
- Relaxed Portraits: Take a mix of formal and candid headshots with your office in the background.
For Professionals Without an Office
- Outdoor Branding: Take lifestyle shots in local parks, coffee shops, or coworking spaces to highlight your flexible work style.
- Photostudio Perks: A studio setup allows for clean, customizable backgrounds and lighting to match your brand colours.
- On-the-Go Action: Capture moments of you working from a laptop at a café, meeting a client, or holding a virtual call.
For Tradespeople and Hands-On Professionals
- On-Site Action: Highlight yourself in your element—whether that’s fixing a roof, painting a wall, or landscaping a garden.
- Detail Shots: Close-ups of tools, hands at work, or finished projects.
- Before-and-After: Showcase transformation projects to demonstrate your expertise.
- Team Dynamics: Group shots with your crew in action or posed at the end of a job.
When It’s Okay to Use Stock Photography
Stock photos can be useful when used the right way. They’re great for decorative touches like patterns, textures, or abstract designs that add to your headers or backgrounds. Need a photo of something tricky to capture, like a rare Amazonian bird or a distant location? Stock photos have you covered. They can also complement your original photos, as long as they match your brand and fit the overall vibe of your website. The trick is to use them thoughtfully and not let them replace the personal touch that custom images bring. When you invest in authentic, high-quality visuals, you create trust, consistency, and a lasting impression that really connects with your audience.
Ready To Create Original Images To Replace Your Stock Photography? We’ll Help You Do It Right.
Don’t fall for the quick decision to use stock photography – your business will benefit from using high-quality, tailored imagery on your website. At 3SIXTY Marketing Solutions, we can help you find the perfect photographer, create a shot list and/or theme, or find a space for you to work in. Then, we can help you build or improve your website and manage the photos on your social media pages in an original way to truly capture your audience while converting your followers into customers. Call 647-250-1494, or book a free consultation today, and let’s get started!
