Digital – that’s what our world revolves around now on. We believe a picture more than the real McCoy. As consumers, our first inclination to buy something is always based on how appealing the picture looks. It could be that an influencer is holding the product and showcasing it on their Instagram, the website of an ecommerce platform, Facebook ads, and the list goes on. But just how powerful can it be?
Retail
Even before we step foot in any brick and mortar shop, we are pulled there by advertisements showing off their latest stock. The composition of the photos highlighting the latest sneakers that we “must have ” even if there are twenty pairs in the closet. Retailers pay thousands on models, background, photographers, lighting and more just to get the perfect shot that will entice us to spend – what a way to capitalize on our senses!
Real Estate
Ever look at real estate sites and just want to click on the “buy” button when you see the house of your dreams? That’s the power of good photos! It shows off the best angles of the property, in combination with some amazing staging – all to make your imagination run wild on the “what if it’s my place”. But on the flip side, if there are pathetic pictures taken and uploaded on the exact same property, it will repulse buyers – all based on composition.
Tourism
Be honest, the reason why you choose that destination and that hotel (or even AirBnB) to go to is because of the pictures, right? There is nothing to be ashamed of. Pictures are perceived as “proof” in our minds and we expect to have just an amazing adventure or relaxing stay there as the photos show. And if not – we shout “false advertising!” even though we know the power of a good photo editing tool has to offer.
Food & Beverage
Does your mouth salivate when you see the picture of the juicy steak that is on special at the restaurant an hour away from you? And come hell or high water, you will make a plan to get there and taste that meat by the end of the week – the power of a good picture! Even cocktails, milkshakes and everything in between will make you actually “taste” it already in your mouth just by looking at the picture. But what is the most ridiculous aspect is what franchises will go to to get the perfect picture. Ever seen the clips on Tiktok or Facebook on how it’s made? Shaving cream, styrofoam and those buns are not real!
“What you see is what you get” might not alway be true, but industries, franchises and corporations have made a lot off of consumers due to the influential power of our sight. And let us not forget the power of a picture in our own personal life – we do love it when someone “likes” the pictures we post on social media. Whether it’s the real product, emotion or even the setting is real – as long as the picture is perfect, it will sell.
