Creative Cropping:
Simple Tricks to Maximize Visual Impact
We often see uninspired communications – we don't give them a second thought. And that's a marketer's nightmare. How can you ensure that your photographic images are doing all they can to deliver your message with impact and memorability? Here are 7 principles that help you get the most out of your images.
1. UNIFY...Line 'em up
When the viewing distances of your pictures aren't equal, zoom and crop until each face looks the same size. Start with the shot that needs the least amount of cropping (in this case, the photo top-right) and make the rest match.
Line up your photos in a uniform way by positioning the eyes at the same level.
2. POSITION...The eyes have it
Crop your close ups at eye level to maintain proper eye-to-eye contact with the viewer. Note the increase in human connection as the zoom gets tighter.
3. SIMPLIFY...Trim away excess detail
Cropping out extraneous details can make your photo more engaging and streamlined. Keep a clear and simple focus.
4. ANGLE...Stay on an even keel
Don't make everybody seasick! Keep the horizon line level.
For a dynamic approach, however, a bold tilt of the camera can turn a weak photo into a stronger statement.
5. ZOOM...Up close and personal
Details activate the senses. In the zoomed photo (on right) you can feel the ball's fuzzy texture and the indentation of the seam. You've added an extra dimension for the viewer and engaged them on a deeper level.
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| Crop your photos to give them function and meaning. |
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6. EXTREME...Small space, big crop.
Tight spaces, such as website or blog banners, sometimes don't leave a lot of room for creativity. But a dramatic cut from a colorful photo can provide a beautiful backdrop.
7. POSITION...Different crops – different meanings
The original photo (left) didn't leave much room for our copy, and the blond woman is out of focus and wearing sunglasses. But before tossing the picture, we cropped more closely. In our new image, the woman's expression and upward gaze help to convey our optimistic message.
The Impact of Cropping Images
Cropping can change the focus, function and meaning of your pictures. Simply understanding a few tricks, reviewing your image's composition, and determining what to snip away can make the difference between discarding a photo or discovering its potential.
For more information, see "Before and After Magazine", Cropping Basics Pix Trix 1.
Enrico Design can help you get your message to your target audience with impact and memorability in print and on the web. Whatever your organizational goals, we keep you top-of-mind with your customers and prospects. Visit www.enricodesign.com, call 781-631-2520 or contact us by e-mail.
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Please contact us for help incorporating these ideas into your marketing communications projects and publications.