How to get more space in print and online – PR PHOTO TIPS

How do you get an editor’s attention?

The single most important element that will improve your company’s odds of gaining free column inches in print and online is simply to provide quality photography.  By supplying an editor good illustration with your press releases you will dramatically increase your publication rates. What do I mean by “good” photography – what sort of images are editors seeking?

Business portraits and headshots are basic requirements for any entrepreneur or professional and they are most useful for building your personal online identity and for marketing materials.  Publications will use this type of imagery when the format allows for it but these are not the shots that will be prominently featured.  They are great to have for straight news articles but are of limited appeal for editorial feature articles.  Provide  the publications you are targeting in your media campaign a reason to display your content prominently and in return you will gain free public notice.

 

PR photo shows action, tells "story"

 

Types of PR photos that get the editors attention:

  • Show your subject in action- have them actively doing something
  • Use photos that relate to your narrative tell your story
  • Environmental portraits that show the subject in context
  • Provide a good variety of views and a selection of different photos to choose from
  • Shots that are well-lit, well exposed and properly focused
  • Good product and facility shots
  • Unusual perspectives and compositions
  • Horizontal and vertically shot choices

Types of public relations photographic clichés that you should avoid:

  • The award presentation hand-off and handshake
  • Shots that are poorly exposed framed and focused. Technical flaws are a non-starter
  • Image files that do not match the publications submission specifications
  • Images that include people and property without proper photography release
  • Group shots that are arranged for a firing squad – up against the wall!
  • Amateur quality, low resolution unprofessional quality

 

Making photographs that get published rather than end up in the trash requires some skill and expertise.  Although digital camera technology is readily available, the results you get yourself may not enhance your professional image.   I would encourage you to consider hiring a professional photographer like myself to produce your PR photography.  Not only do I have the creative skills to make images that editors want,  I also understand the formatting, technical standards and release issues that you will encounter.

You wouldn’t consider someone who watches court room TV shows qualified to defend you in court, that would be crazy..  Why would you trust your public identity and the perception of you and your company to a casual snap shooter?

I have been producing editorial grade, public relations photos for clients, which have been published thousands of times during my career.  My objective is to create photography for my clients that enhance their image and provide a maximum return on investment.  Not only do my images make you look good- they add value to your brand.  For more information on my public relations photography services please email me at info@testotimephoto.com

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