Guest Blog Post by Darren Earney of
Why Stock Photography Might Not Be Enough
As digital marketers, we often hear the debate about whether stock photography is acceptable for SEO purposes. At ElevateOM, we understand the appeal of stock photos – they’re convenient, readily available, and can save businesses time and money. However, the reality is that relying solely on stock photography may not be enough to maximise your website’s potential when it comes to search engine optimisation (SEO). Let’s explore why originality matters more than ever in the digital landscape.
The Good, The Bad, and The Generic
Stock photos have their place. They can be useful when you’re in a rush, when budget constraints are a concern, or when you simply need to add some visual interest to your site. There are vast libraries of high-quality stock images that can enhance a website’s design. But while they may look visually appealing, they can also detract from your site’s authenticity.
Google’s algorithm is always evolving, with user experience as its primary focus. Stock photos are, by nature, generic. They might work for a quick fix, but they often lack the personality and relevance that truly unique images bring to your brand. If your website looks like every other site using the same images, your chances of standing out decrease. Custom, high-quality visuals that reflect your brand can help you rise above the noise.
Why Google Prefers Original Images
Google doesn’t always penalise websites for using stock photos, but it never rewards them either. Original images, on the other hand, are a clear signal to search engines that your website offers fresh, unique content. Since Google’s goal is to serve the best possible content to its users, originality is crucial. Unique images also increase engagement rates, as they tend to capture the user’s attention more effectively than a photo they’ve seen multiple times across the web.
Furthermore, images are an opportunity to further optimise your website. Each image offers a chance to improve your on-page SEO through properly named image files, alt text, and even captions. When you use stock images, many of these elements are often overlooked or under-utilised, limiting the potential SEO benefit.
Enhancing User Experience
User engagement plays a massive role in SEO performance. If visitors find your site visually appealing, easy to navigate, and relevant to their needs, they’re more likely to stay longer. High-quality original images create a more professional and trustworthy impression, which can improve metrics like bounce rate and dwell time.
Conversely, if your site uses generic stock photos that don’t quite fit your brand or message, visitors may perceive your content as less authentic or even low-quality. That’s the last thing you want when trying to build trust and convert visitors into customers.
Conclusion
At ElevateOM, we always recommend going the extra mile with original content – and that includes imagery. While stock photos can serve a purpose, original photos and visuals have the potential to boost your SEO, improve user engagement, and strengthen your brand’s identity. The investment in original imagery may require more effort upfront, but the long-term benefits are well worth it. So next time you’re building or updating your website, think twice before settling for the generic – your SEO strategy deserves better.