Adding images to content... productive approaches?

[browndog]

I always add an image where appropriate, but sometimes I don't have an image, so keep the content text only. But I'm starting to think it doesn't seem as friendly without an image.

So say I'm writing about widgetitis, I don't have an image of widgetitis, but I have lots of images of widgets. Do I just add that, or nothing at all? I have started paying somebody to create images for me, but sometimes it's too complicated to do.

What do other people do?

[keyplyr]

Images certainly add to the user experience. Placed correctly, the right image can enhance the content and keep the reader engaged.

There are stock images available from vendors and there are many that can be found using image searches. However using unique custome images are always the best way to go.

IMO adding the wrong image is worse than no image at all.

[not2easy]

Even phones take decent images and there are free editing programs to enhance, size and crop the images. You should be able to think of an idea of what you want to show and think of where you can take pictures for your site. If it involves people, you may need to get a release to use their image.

Stock image suppliers charge very low rates if you can't seem to find the right look on your own. I would shop around for one that looks just right and is affordable. For less than the cost of a cold drink you can choose through hundreds, even thousands of images and not worry about copyright complaints.

[browndog]

Thanks for the feedback.

Sometimes it really is difficult to get an image for the topic, obviously it's hard to explain when I can't be specific, but similar to 'widgetitis'. Although now I have found this lady who has been creating custom made images that I am really happy about. I used to avoid images unless I felt I could use one which really really went with the page. Ie; a blue widget on my page about blue widgets. But sometimes it's not that clear. Such as 'where to buy a widget'. Do you need an image on that? But I think I've answered my question, which is 'no you don't, but it looks nicer'.