You're shopping online, taking in every last detail on a pair of designer shoes. The immaculate stitching, the shine of the buckle, the delicate pattern of the heel. The thrill as you click "buy"...

You're looking for a reception venue and THIS. is. the. one. Trellises covered in wisteria skirting a regal fountain. Large reception hall, freshly painted and adorned with twisting wrought iron. A sweeping curved staircase, where you can make your grand entrance. You click over to the booking page...

You're looking for a new lunch spot. This restaurant has great reviews, but the photos on their menu look... well, they leave a lot to be desired. (So blurry! And is that rice or pasta?? Maybe you'll try somewhere else...)

One of these things is not like the other. 

The difference between an online experience that ensures a sale and one that repels customers? The quality of your images.

We get it, running your business (especially when you're just starting out) is difficult. You never seem to have enough time, money, or energy to get everything done that needs doing – but it has to get done regardless.

So here's one more thing – big thing – staring back at you on your to-do list: your website images. 

You need great product photos on your website. 

You sell products, your waiting public is eager to see them. (Now!) So what's the harm with just snapping a few pics on your phone, and posting those?

STOP. Think back and breathe. Remember how you heard good things about that restaurant, but then saw messy, blurry (and frankly unappetizing) plates? 

Your reaction is not uncommon. In fact, 94% of shoppers highly rank “image quality” as part of their online buying decision. Attractive product shots are cited as even more important than your product description. Chew on that. 

That means a bad picture can hurt you more than none at all. And getting good photos is about more than the device you use. Truly great photos have great lighting, positioning, framing, and editing to match. 

Amazing websites have one thing in common: professional photography.

The average non-photographer doesn't have the skills, time, or practical experience to match the quality of photos you need to best promote your business. You need a professional.

No, it's not free – but it's *worth it.*

Hiring a pro photographer for a few hours is money well spent. It's an investment in your business, that will surely return you more customers for your effort. 

A professional photographer knows how to properly light your products so they look dazzling, not dull. They'll highlight small details that draw in customers. And then they'll deliver a sheaf of clean, high-quality photos that you can use on your website, on menus, emails and ads – everywhere you promote your business. 

So how do you find a professional photographer?

Pro photographers don't grow on trees, but they're not exactly hard to find.

Start by asking your friends for recommendations. Chances are, you know at least a dozen people who have hired photographers for weddings, special events, portraits, or their own businesses.  

Take to the web and run a quick Google search to find photographers in your area. Take a look at the portfolios that you find – there's sure to be one that strikes your fancy. 

You can also check out the PPA worldwide database of professional photographers.

So take a deep breath and take the plunge. You'll never regret getting clean, professional shots for your business website.