When creating a website on Wix, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing the right hero image. Your hero image is the first thing visitors see when they land on your site; it has a big impact on whether they choose to stay or leave.
And we've got you covered with some practical tips to help you choose the perfect hero image that reflects your brand and captivates your audience.
Let's dive in!
Convey the Right Emotion:
First things first, think about the emotion you want to convey. Do you want your visitors to feel confident, happy, or relaxed? Once you know how you want your ideal client to FEEL, you can start searching for the perfect image to achieve that.
For example, if you're a life coach targeting ambitious women, you might want to evoke confidence and determination. In this case, a hero image featuring a successful woman in a professional setting, exuding self-assurance, can be a great choice.
If you are a yoga teacher focusing on relaxation and mindfulness, opt for an image that showcases tranquility and inner peace.
It's important to choose an image that resonates with your target audience and showcases the essence of your brand.
Opt for Brand Photography
Brand photography is an ideal choice for personal brands and service providers like coaches, consultants and wellness professionals. Investing in professional brand photography can greatly enhance the overall look and feel of your website and establish a stronger connection with your potential clients.
While it may not be feasible for everyone to invest in brand photography, it's certainly worth considering if you have the means. Here's why:
Elevate your professionalism: Professional images lend an air of credibility and expertise to your website. They create a polished and cohesive visual style that showcases your brand in the best possible light.
Establish trust: High-quality brand photography conveys a sense of authenticity and professionalism, helping to establish trust with your audience. It demonstrates that you take your business seriously and are committed to delivering quality services.
Personal connection: Professionally captured images allow you to present yourself in a way that resonates with your ideal client. They provide a glimpse into your personality, making you more relatable and approachable. This personal connection can foster stronger relationships with potential clients.
However, it's important to note that not everyone has the financial resources to invest in brand photography, and that's perfectly okay. There are still other options available, such as using carefully selected stock photos or using other visual elements that align with your brand.
Layout Options and Text Overlays:
Choosing the right layout for your hero image can greatly enhance its impact on your website. Wix offers various layout options that allow you to position your hero image in different ways. Let's explore some popular choices:
Full-Screen Image: This layout fills the entire screen with your hero image, creating a visually stunning and immersive experience for your visitors. It's particularly effective when you want to make a bold statement or showcase a captivating image that represents your brand.
Split Screen: With this layout, you can divide the screen into two sections, where one side features your hero image and the other side displays additional content or a call-to-action. It's a great way to balance visuals and important information.
Image with Text Overlay: This layout allows you to overlay text directly on top of your hero image. You can add your tagline, a catchy headline, or a call-to-action that entices visitors to take the next step. Be mindful of the contrast between the text and the image to ensure readability.
Slider or Slideshow: If you have multiple hero images that you want to showcase, you can use a slider or slideshow layout. This dynamic option allows you to display a series of images that automatically transition, creating a visually engaging experience.
Showcase Yourself in Your Hero Image
As a small business owner, your personal brand is crucial. Placing a photo of yourself in a prominent position on your website can help build trust and create a personal connection with your audience.
For example, as a teacher or coach, you can use a hero image that showcases your warm and approachable nature, with a genuine smile and an engaging posture. This allows visitors to envision themselves working with you, fostering a sense of trust and relatability.
Or as a yoga teacher, you could choose a hero image showing you leading a class, demonstrating poses, and radiating a sense of serenity. This not only showcases your expertise but also helps potential clients visualise the experience of working with you. It creates a connection and motivates them to take the next step.
Be Mindful of Stock Photos
While stock photos can be a convenient resource, it's important to exercise caution. Many stock photos can appear fake or staged, which can harm the trust you aim to build with your audience.
However, if you can find authentic-looking stock photos, they can be a valuable addition to your website. Wix provides a vast collection of free stock photos and links to platforms like Unsplash for even more options. Additionally, you can purchase less commonly used stock photos through your Wix account, where Wix is linked to Shutterstock, at a reasonable price.
For more on picking the right photos for your website, read our blog post How to choose the right images for your Wix website.
Your hero image is a powerful tool that can help you connect with your ideal client and make a lasting impression. By using photos to convey the right emotion, you can create a stunning hero image that captivates your audience and helps you achieve your goals. So, go ahead and make your website shine with the perfect hero image that speaks directly to your niche!