Including relevant, high-quality images on your website and in your content marketing can have a big influence on conversion rates. Images catch the eye, draw in readers, break up blocks of text, and help convey messages and meaning. According to research, content with images often sees much higher engagement and conversions compared to content without.
Images Capture Attention
In an age of information overload, getting noticed is a challenge for any business. Images help content stand out. Studies show that when people land on a new page, they are drawn to images before text. In fact, having relevant images and graphics is one of the most important elements for getting clicks and engagement.
Articles with at least one image get 94% more views than articles without. Additionally, posts with at least one image see 2.3X more engagement than those without.
Images Enhance Message Retention
Not only do images grab attention, but they also help reinforce messaging and aid memory. The brain processes images 60,000 times faster than text. Visuals make content more memorable and understandable.
Adding graphics, photos, and illustrations that relate to the copy helps readers visualize concepts. Images work with text to convey the overall message more effectively. Readers are able to recall key information better when it is paired with visuals.
Images Break Up Blocks of Text
Large chunks of text can seem imposing to readers. Too much dense copy at once may cause readers to skim or abandon posts altogether.
Relevant images help break up long blocks of text, making the content more scannable and digestible. Strategically placed images act as visual formatting elements. Along with headers, bullets, and short paragraphs, images help direct the reader’s attention and focus.
Optimizing Images for Conversion
To harness the power of images for conversions, there are a few best practices to follow to optimize images:
- Choose quality over quantity: Carefully select each image. One impactful, high-res image is better than many low-quality images.
- Optimize for speed: Compress large files so pages load quickly. Use proper image formats like JPG and PNG.
- Include alt text: Add descriptive alt text so images are indexed by search engines.
- Pick relevant images: Images should clearly relate to the topic and enhance the messaging.
- Use natural images: Images with authentic people, emotions, and real-world settings resonate more.
- Experiment with placement: Put key images near calls to action for maximum impact.
The Takeaway
In today’s visual-centric online landscape, leveraging the power of images in content is key for engagement and conversions. Images attract attention, aid retention, break up text, and help convey marketing messages.
By featuring quality, relevant graphics and photographs, brands can create content that resonates, engages, and converts.
Content Marketing Resources
Additional reading to improve your content marketing skills
- Research Says These Two Choices Determine Your Content’s Shelf Life
- Writing Better Titles Without Using Clickbait Tactics
- What Is Contextual Link Building
- Understanding and Tapping into the Emotional Triggers of Your Audience
- Digital Marketing Strategies to Increase Customer Retention
- Evergreen Content vs. Fresh Content
- Does Word Count Matter for SEO?
- Why You Should Stop Paying for Low-Volume Keywords
- Social Media Content Creation Techniques for Higher Engagement