by Ally Matos
We live in a social and online world now. Years ago people would sign off of the internet saying “goodbye”! or “be right back” Now we live on the internet. Advertisements and business are all online and if you aren’t then my friend you are not in the game.
It’s crucial as a business no matter if you are a small start up or a large corporation, having great imagery in terms of what we call “content creation” allows lifestyle brands and businesses to connect more with their specific audience and also drives sales.
As a content creator I am always creating imagery for clients. Sure you can buy stock imagery, sure you can share others work but when push comes to shove, having your own visuals to share that not only create a unique visual experience to your clients and customers but also create a trust, a feeling and a moment with the audience. Emotions drive sales, emotions help us remember certain moments and how they made us feel. We are no longer selling products, we are selling lifestyles, experiences and emotions.
So why create custom imagery for your business? and why is this so important? I am here to share with you my 7 reasons why content marketing is so important… Read below and take some notes. Feel free to get in touch with me if you have any questions.
- Connects with your audience
When your followers are scrolling through instagram, facebook etc., you want to stand out from the crowd. Creating your own content allows you to share a piece of your blog, business and life. Content (photography/videography) allows you to connect with your audience. Remember when you share anything especially for your business, you want to share an experience.
- Helps improve conversions
When your audience likes what they see, they are more likely to click on your photo/video which then leads them to your feed where they get to experience a piece of your blog, business etc. This also allows them to click on your website. Its all about building trust and relationships. This in turn drives sales.
- Maintain a consistent voice
It is important to have a consistent brand look. That is why, hiring a professional photographer (WE DO THIS!) #selfpromotion, on a regular basis helps bring your brand and business to life! Sure, you could go out and shoot your own content and that’s all great, however if photography is not your jam then finding someone to help you out when you need it is smart! You can go back to kicking ass at what you do! A consistent brand look also gives life to your business, it reminds people that you are still here creating which then allows people to identify who you are!
- Creates Leads
While your followers and returning customers/clients are very important, it is all about expanding and continuing to build your brand. When you share good quality and on brand content, other brands and potential clients will be hooked and want to see more goods! That means YOU get seen more and shared more which then grows your brand! The ROI (return on investment) for content marketing is through the roof! Many of our clients have made more sales, booked more sessions and have grown an organic audience just by investing in content marketing!
- Remains Relevant
In a world where everything is fast paced it is hard to keep up with everyone else. That is why consistent, on brand content allows you to create content that is relevant to the times. When you invest in on going photography, videography etc. you are telling your audience ” Hi, I’m here and I’m relevant and you need to hire me!” – Example: Cinemagraphs (moving photos) have been popping up everywhere and there is a huge demand now as consumers want to be up with the times. Gone are the days where just a simple photo would do. Our team started creating cinemagraphs for our clients and our bookings went up! We then posted saying we were doing them and started to book right away! When you remind your audience what you do, you will be surprised at the outcome! We dare you… go do it!
- Educates your audience and potential clients
It is not enough to just post a great photograph. You have to consider what the photo represents, why you are sharing it and how it fits in the grand scheme of things. Educating your audience is so important because it informs them on certain topics they would have not known. This is how you set yourself apart from your competition. This is why brand strategy (WE ALSO DO THIS!) is so important because it is thoughtfully curated for a purpose. Creating content that is educational and unique to your business/brand, gives your audience information they need and you are telling them ” Hi, I’m the solution”!
- Encourage interest and engagement
Attracting your audience with striking content encourages them to comment, re-post and engage! This is how you can connect with them and communicate. Example: Posting on insta stories and creating a pole with some awesome content. This allows you to connect and lets your audience know their opinion matters!
These seven important points are guides to help you understand just how crucial it is to create content. As I stated above, people want to see the person behind the brand. Connecting and communicating allows you to be seen authentically and that is what it’s all about: being our truest self and telling our story.
About the author:
Allyson Matos is a photographer, videographer and influencer from Vancouver, Canada. She is the owner and creative lead of Allyfotografy Media, a company that specializes in content creation, business strategy, influencer marketing, logo/branding, portraits and weddings.
Connect with Ally: @allymatos @allyfotografymediaco
Website: allyfotografy.com
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Read Ally’s full bio here.
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