Defining a Photo Style
Mood Board First
Before selecting any photos, define:
- Lighting: Natural vs studio, warm vs cool, high-key vs low-key
- Composition: Centered vs rule-of-thirds, close-up vs environmental
- Color grading: Warm, cool, desaturated, high-contrast, film-like
- Subject: People, objects, environments, abstract
- Energy: Calm, energetic, contemplative, dynamic
Style Categories
| Style | Characteristics | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Editorial | High contrast, dramatic lighting, strong composition | Luxury, fashion, premium brands |
| Documentary | Natural light, candid, unposed | Authentic, mission-driven brands |
| Product | Clean, controlled, focus on the object | E-commerce, SaaS features |
| Lifestyle | Natural, aspirational, people in context | Consumer brands, wellness |
| Abstract | Textures, shapes, macro, atmospheric | Tech, creative, conceptual |
| Minimal | Lots of negative space, simple subjects | Premium, clean brands |
Photo Selection Criteria
Technical
- Resolution sufficient for intended use (2x for retina)
- Sharp focus on the subject
- No distracting artifacts or compression
- Appropriate aspect ratio for the layout
Compositional
- Clear subject/focal point
- Background doesn't compete with subject
- Enough negative space for text overlay (if needed)
- Works at multiple crop ratios for responsive use
Brand Fit
- Matches defined mood and color direction
- Consistent with other images in the same context
- Avoids stock photo cliches (handshake, pointing at screen, diverse group laughing at laptop)
- Represents intended audience authentically
Stock Photo Rules
- Avoid obviously staged/posed shots
- Avoid watermarked previews in mockups
- Prefer photography from smaller, curated libraries over mega-stock sites
- If using AI-generated images, ensure no artifacts (wrong fingers, text gibberish, uncanny expressions)
- Always check licensing for intended commercial use