The Case for Hiring a Marketing Communications Firm for Schools

Jan 10, 2024

Photographing testimonials is a powerful way to add a personal and authentic touch to your school’s promotional materials. Following these practical tips from you can help create compelling visual stories that enhance your school’s credibility and engage your audience effectively. Here’s are some suggestions:

When photographing testimonials, it’s essential to create a connection with your person. This connection fosters trust and relatability. Encourage your subjects to relax and be themselves, capturing their genuine expressions and emotions.

Choose the Right Setting

Selecting an appropriate setting is crucial for conveying the right message. Consider the context of the testimonial and choose a location that complements it. For instance, if you’re capturing a science teacher, there are plenty of “props” in their classrooms to use.

Natural Lighting is Key

Natural light is your best friend when it comes to photography. Avoid harsh artificial lighting that can create unflattering shadows. Position your subjects in a way that utilizes soft, diffused natural light, either early in the morning or during the golden hour in the evening. I always try to open the blinds. Bring your subject as close to natural light as possible. I sometimes even turn the artificial lights off.

Focus on Composition

A well-composed photograph enhances the visual appeal of your testimonial. Pay attention to the rule of thirds, framing your subject in a way that draws attention to the positive aspects of the testimonial. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to find the most compelling composition. Capture your subject with enough room on the right and left for a short testimonial quote.

Capture Authentic Expressions

Genuine smiles and expressions are the key to making your testimonials relatable. Encourage your subjects to share their thoughts naturally, capturing candid moments that reflect their authenticity. Sometimes you may need to snap 50-100 photos before you capture the perfect photo. Keep photographing and give yourself enough time.

Include Relevant Props

Introduce props that add context to the testimonial and reinforce your message. For example, if you’re capturing a that science teacher, use the periodic table, science equipment, and even put your teacher in a smock and gloves. This will add to your subject’s personality and make a great photo.

Maintain Consistency

If you plan to use testimonials across various platforms, maintain a consistent style to create a cohesive visual identity. Consistency in lighting, composition, and overall aesthetics helps reinforce your brand image. Keep in mind there are so many platforms ie: website hero pages, Instagram, Twitter, e-newsletters, environmental design that you want brand consistency.

Respect Privacy and Obtain Consent

Always respect the privacy of your subjects and obtain their consent before using their images for testimonials. Clearly communicate how the images will be used and ensure that your subjects feel comfortable with the process.

Photographing testimonials is an art that involves capturing the genuine essence of people’s experiences. By building a connection, choosing the right setting, and focusing on composition, you can elevate your testimonials to the next level and share their compelling stories. Remember, authenticity is the key to building trust, so let your subjects’ personalities shine through in every photograph.

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