9 Tips to Effectively Use Graphics for your Blog Posts

If you want your blog to be successful, you need to make it eye-catching. The best way of doing this is by using graphics. A picture speaks louder than words. So, adding pictures makes your blog post more informative. It is of course more attractive. Whether you add an image, an animation, or an infographic, your blog post’s value increases. 

It is important that you don’t simply stuff your blog post with graphics. It must be done in a proper way with each graphic having a purpose. In this guide, we have nine useful tips that will help you in using graphics effectively in all your blog posts. 

Effective Tips for Graphics Use in Blogs 

1) Ensure the images used are legal 

A costly mistake many bloggers make is to download whatever image they like and use it. Images are copyrighted and using them without the owner’s permission is illegal. Your blog can be taken down if you are reported. Ensure you download images from stock photography websites legally. You will get access to many free images on such websites and can download them for use. 

2) Use quality images 

Ensure the image quality is good. Using images of low quality or images that are blurred can be counterproductive. It can create a negative impact on the reader who may quit the page. Use high-quality images, but at the same time optimize them so their size does not slow down page loading. 

3) Create graphics using tools 

There are many free tools available online, such as Canva.com, which can help you create amazing graphics for your website. Import photos you have taken or start with free or premium stock photos from a stock agency like Dreamstime.com to lay a stunning foundation for your final creation.

4) Keep AIDA in mind 

While creating a graphic, keep the principle of AIDA in mind. AIDA stands for Attention, Interest, Desire, and Action. The overall color and appearance of the graphic should get the attention of your reader. The right use of headings and subheadings should make it interesting to read. The content of the graphic (text) should create desire and the graphic must motivate them to take action. The action could be to click on a link to subscribe to your blog. 

5) Focus on your branding 

A blog is also a brand. Define branding elements for your blog. It can be as simple as your name or you could even have a logo and a specific blog name. Use this in the graphics you create. Also, use a consistent color scheme. Use the same colors for your branding, so that it stands out. When you do this consistently, people will recognize your branding. 

6) Explainer images would be useful 

Some types of blogs would require the use of explainer images. These are images that explain a concept or a point you are trying to illustrate. For example, you may want to add a flowchart to explain how a process is carried out. Use charts and diagrams to make your post more understandable. Every graphic you use in your blog post must be with a purpose and must add value. 

7) Infographics are powerful 

Infographics are a powerful way of putting your point across. It is a graphic that provides information through tables, charts, and the presentation of data. When you have a lot of data to present, putting it in the form of text may not be effective. Instead, use an appropriate tool to create an infographic. It allows you to present your data effectively, making a strong impact. Even if people do not read an entire article, they will definitely look at your infographic. 

8) Don’t forget SEO 

SEO is important for blog posts, so you promote your blog on Google. This holds good even for graphics. Ensure you use alt text for your images. When you use alt text, Google associates it with the image. So, if someone is searching for the text then your image would show up in the search results. Clicking on the image would open your blog post. 

9) Use images regularly 

There is no limit on images to use in your blog posts. Ensure you use optimized images, so they load fast. A thumb rule is to use one image for every 150 words of text. Don’t add graphics to a post just to make it look attractive. Each graphic must have a purpose and must contribute to the overall blog post’s utility.