We can be honest with each other here, right? We all know that stock photos don’t always have the best reputation. From the overly enthusiastic office high-fives to the “woman laughing alone with salad,” to Kim Convenience star, Simu Liu, jazzersizing his way to a Marvel bod, stock images can occasionally feel like the visual equivalent of elevator music. But, much like elevator music, they have their place (and can even be a bop!) if you know how to choose wisely.
The trick? Finding images that go beyond the usual clichés and make your brand feel fresh, relevant, and on point, all without breaking the bank. Here’s how to sift through the cringe-worthy shots to uncover the true gems that actually add to your message (and don’t make you look like a mid-2000s insurance ad).
The Secret to Choosing Stock Photos That Don’t Scream “Stock”
Let’s face it: some stock photos just have that look. We all know the offenders: the cringe-worthy, the outdated, the downright odd, like those photos with people who are exuberantly happy to be around an office table in suits. But great visuals are out there if you know where to look. Here’s our guide to finding the gold:
- Avoid the Usual Suspects – Skipping the most obvious search results is step one. Dive a bit deeper, and you’ll find unique shots that can make your brand feel fresh and authentic. Be as specific as possible with what you want.
- Think Vibe, Not Literal – Sometimes, what conveys your message best isn’t the literal image. Instead of searching for exactly what your brand does, think about the feeling you want to convey. A strong image can say a lot about your brand without being too on the nose.
- Add a Patch Twist – When you work with us, we never send you a stock photo fresh from the web. We always add a creative edge that matches and enhances your brand story, making sure that what once was a general-looking photo will look polished and smoothly integrated into your design aesthetic! Want to know how? Just ask! 😉
Patch Knows the Stock-Photo Struggle (And How to Turn It Into a Win)
At Patch, we get it—no one wants to look like they raided a generic photo bank. That’s why we find images that feel like a natural extension of your brand, ones that blend seamlessly rather than stick out. Because when you get it right, stock photos are an easy and affordable way to add personality and polish.
Final Take: Stock Photos Are Your Secret Weapon—When You Know How to Use Them
Sure, stock photos can feel like a quick fix, but with a little know-how, they’re a hidden asset and can be a fantastic resource for brands of all sizes. They can offer a smart way to add polish and professionalism when chosen thoughtfully and with care. So let us help you uncover visuals that won’t just fill space—they’ll tell your story. Because at Patch, we don’t do boring. We do branded, polished, and eye-catching, even when it starts with stock (or a picture of a guy wearing his dog’s hair on his head…)
Let’s talk about taking your brand to the next level. Reach out at patchdesign.ca!
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