How to Improve the Look of Your Blog Graphics

by Ruthie Serna, Guest Contributor

Graphics are more important than a lot of people realize. Poor quality graphics can give the wrong impression. Some people might interpret them as generic or less trustworthy. Improperly created graphics often fail to convey the point that they’re trying to make. Visually unappealing graphics are less likely to be passed around. 

If your graphics aren’t having the impact you’d like for them to have, it’s time to employ some new strategies for creating visual content on your blog.

Create Graphics with Standout Elements
It’s not good enough to have a graphic just for the sake of having a graphic. While the increasingly short attention span of the average internet viewer makes images and videos necessary to retain readership, it doesn’t do much to use graphics that seem to have no other purpose than to look pretty. If you have space for graphics, make sure the graphics you’re using are actually translating some kind of information in a way that people will be able to understand from the moment they see them.
It’s better to create things like flowcharts or infographics than it is to put text on an illustration. Graphics should translate as readable, rather than just an eye-grabbing piece that breaks up text. People viewing your graphics should know right away what they’re attempting to communicate. Use data and specific visuals of the things being described in your text for the full effect.


Don’t Rely on Stock Images
Some stock images are adopted by tons of blogs, and it’s inevitable that some of your readers will have seen them before. Stock images are convenient for things like post thumbnails, and many people incorporate them into their graphics. Avoid using something that’s already made its rounds on the internet. If you need a recurring graphic element, it’s easy enough to hire a graphic artist on Gumtree who can draw up some original concepts for you.


Avoid Loud Colors and Overused Fonts
Loud colors, like bright yellows and pinks, should be used sparingly. They’re overwhelming to look at for an extended period of time, even though they’re likely to catch the eyes of people scrolling through your blog. Save those for the most important elements of the graphic.
Font choice is also crucially important. You’re probably familiar with the tropes of fonts like Comic Sans, which is generally regarded as impossible to take seriously. If you’re using an overly decorated or tired font, people are more likely to disregard your graphics upon sight. Make sure the font you choose to relay information in your graphics is easy to read and clean to look at.


Make Them Universally Flattering
You’re inevitably going to need some graphics that are very specific to your blog, including your logo or header images. For other graphics, you’d be better off creating things that are helpful enough for your readers (or fellow blog owners) that they’re likely to be shared. The less blog-specific your graphics are, the further they’re likely to travel. It’s okay to watermark these kinds of graphics, but make sure your logo or url doesn’t obstruct the actual information you’re displaying. This heavy handed branding is an eyesore, and your readers will likely find it to be annoying.

It helps to take a step back and view your graphics as though you were someone else. If you saw that same graphic on your favorite blog, would you enjoy it? If you’re unsure, compare it to the graphics being used by your competitors. If they can stack up (or if they look even better), you’re in the clear.

Ruthie is a contributing writer, always willing to share her knowledge and experiences. She loves to write articles that make lives of other writers and entrepreneurs easier. She’s interested in web design, branding and business management trends.