“Your Photos Are Telling a Story; Make Sure It’s the Right One” - by Guest Blogger: Kathy Russell
Your story deserves to be seen, and great images help tell it, beautifully.
INTRODUCTION
Kathy Rustell is a award winning website designer and SEO strategist based in North Devon. She runs Build Your Business Online with her daughter Jennifer, helping brilliant business owners refresh their brand and create websites that reflect where they are now, not where they started. With over 30 years in business, Kathy brings a mix of strategy, creativity, and heart to every project.
Image Copyright ©Dean Chapple
I’ve built a lot of websites over the years, and I have clients worldwide, but here’s one thing I’ve learned:
The words matter.
The layout matters.
But the images? They set the tone for everything.
When I first started, I’d often have clients send me photos that were “good enough.”
A few selfies.
Some slightly grainy phone snaps.
A couple of old headshots they didn’t love but figured would do.
They’d say, “Let’s just get the site live. I’ll update the photos later.”
But more often than not, “later” never came.
And the website never quite felt right.
Here's What I See As a Designer…
As soon as a site uses beautiful, professional photos, something shifts.
The whole thing comes to life.
The brand feels elevated.
The person behind the business feels real, not just a logo and a list of services.
Because here’s the truth:
People don’t just buy your service.
They buy you, your energy, your story, your values.
And nothing communicates that faster than your images.
Your Website Is Your Shop Window, And Photos Are The Display
When someone lands on your homepage, they’re asking themselves:
Can I trust this person?
Do they feel approachable?
Do they get me?
Your photos can answer all of that in a second.
A warm smile. A behind-the-scenes shot. A close-up of your product or service in action. These details create a connection. They build trust. They stop someone scrolling and say, “This is the one.”
Great Images Make The Whole Website Work Harder
As a designer, I can create the best layout in the world, but without strong imagery, it always feels like something’s missing.
With professional photos?
The design flows better
The message lands faster
The whole site feels more confident and cohesive.
It’s no longer just about looking nice. It’s about being memorable and magnetic.
If You’re Investing In a Website, Don’t Skip The Photography
It doesn’t need to be stiff or formal. Some of the best images I’ve worked with are relaxed, natural, and full of personality.
If you’re lucky enough to be working with a brilliant photographer like Andrea (and if you’re reading this, I’m guessing you are!), take full advantage.
Chat about what you’ll be using the photos for.
Plan a mix of portrait, landscape, action, and detail shots.
Capture not just what you do, but who you are.
Because when your photos reflect the real you, your confidence, your creativity, your care, that’s when your website becomes more than just a digital brochure: It becomes a brand.
If you’d like to chat about how to use your professional photos on your website, I’m always happy to help!
Kathy Rustell | Website Designer & SEO Coach
Branding and Web Design For Business Owners
Image Copyright ©Dean Chapple
Want to get in touch with Kathy, and find out more about working with her?
Here are all the details!
