Yelp's guide to great photos: practical tips

Yelp this week provided a list of recommendations on choosing the right photos to market your business. Platforms like Yelp, where consumers actively seek businesses, high-quality photographs can be the deciding factor in whether someone chooses you over the competition.

But it's not just about having any photos - it needs to be the right photos. Strategic, well-executed images tell a story about your business, build trust, and showcase exactly why a customer should walk through your door (or click that "order" button).

• Think Like a Customer: What are people most curious about when considering your business? Put yourself in their shoes and use your photos to answer those potential questions.
• Showcase Your Range: Don't just focus on the big-ticket items. Customers are interested in the details that complete the picture - a well-stocked inventory, a cozy waiting area, the unique process behind your service.
• Quality Matters: Smartphones are good tools, but remember the basics of photography. Favor natural light whenever possible. Ensure your images are clear and in focus. Take a moment to compose shots, avoiding distracting clutter or awkward angles.
• Captions Count: Words enhance your visuals. Describe what's happening in the picture, highlight key services, and even inject a bit of your brand personality.
• More is More: Yelp encourages you to share a breadth of photos. There's no limit, so take advantage of this feature to showcase your business from multiple angles.

Pro-Tips for Going the Extra Mile:

• Get Personal: Photos of your team in action add warmth and build trust.
• Before & After: These transformations are immensely satisfying, especially for service-based industries.
• Behind the Scenes: Give customers a glimpse into your process for added intrigue.
• Seasonal Updates: Keep your photos fresh by reflecting holidays, new menu items, or current projects.

Why Yelp photos matter: more than just eye candy

• Authenticity is Key: In the age of filters and staged perfection, genuine photos go a long way. People want to see the real you - the heart and soul of your business. Your photos are an opportunity to show off your unique environment, your friendly staff, your commitment to sustainability, or whatever sets you apart. Stock photos and logos simply won't cut it.
• Visual Guide to Your Expertise: Consider your Yelp page as a visual portfolio. Photos let you demonstrate the specifics of what you offer. If you're a contractor, showcase different project sizes and styles. For a restaurant, highlight your signature dishes and ambiance. Specific, well-captioned photos mean customers don't have to guess if you're the right fit for their needs.
• The Image-Revenue Connection: It's not just about looking good; impactful visuals translate into real-world results. Yelp's research indicates that businesses with photos and complete business information receive significantly higher customer engagement. That means more calls, more website visits, and ultimately, more sales.
• Image is Everything: The way you present your business visually reflects your overall standards. Professional-looking photos convey attention to detail and commitment to quality. Blurry, poorly lit, or misaligned images can send the wrong message.