We’re on a mission to put stock photo models out of work.

Showcasing the “real people” on your website has enormous benefits. Unfortunately, most advice/planning businesses don’t do it, often because of spurious objections, which are easily overcome.

“Real people” means your clients and your team, and there are many ways to include them on your website. Your team can be showcased with individual images, group shots, or photos of them working. When it comes to clients, testimonial videos are the best way to get their pictures on your site.

So, in this week’s blog, we’ll tackle these excuses head-on and see if we can add a few stock models to the dole queue.

“My clients won’t appear on videos.”

If your niche is MI6 operatives or members of the SAS, then you have a point. If not, we guarantee that if you ask the right clients in the right way, many will happily record a testimonial video.

You don’t need to take my word for it, though. Simply click here to download our template email, send it to a few carefully selected clients, and see what they say.

“Our website designers say we don’t need to do it.”

I hate to break it to you, but you’ve chosen to work with the wrong partner. They either don’t understand why showcasing your team and clients is essential, or they want to get the site launched and paid quickly.

Neither is great, and it’s time to think again.

“There’s no need to do it.”

Images of your team and clients immediately make your site feel more personal and create a connection with visitors that stock images will never do.

Sure, there’s more work involved than simply logging into Shutterstock and downloading a picture of a couple on a beach, but it’s worth it.

Interestingly, it’s larger firms who are less likely to showcase “real” people on their websites. Many small advice/planning firms are much better, putting their larger counterparts to shame.

“It’ll take longer.”

You’re right; it will, but your website is your shop window. It’s where potential clients decide whether you’re the right option for them, and you have no right to reply. So you have to get it right. Surely it’s worth the extra time?

“We don’t want to spend the money on client videos or a photoshoot.”

The cost of a photoshoot and client testimonial videos are insignificant compared to the potential benefit.

Unless you have a large team, a photoshoot will likely cost £500 to £750, and we charge as little as £249 plus VAT for a client testimonial video.

Plus, did I mention that your website is your shop window, and you need to get it right?

“Group shots quickly become outdated when people leave the team.”

Historically, this has caused an issue with group photos. However, the tools that are now available make it very easy to remove people from images.

We needed to do this for a firm a couple of weeks ago. The group photo was downloaded, edited, and uploaded to their website in less than five minutes.

“We have new people joining our team all the time.”

I completely understand why this is a challenge. However, we still don’t believe it’s a reason not to showcase your team on your website. Simply work with a local photographer who can pop into your office and quickly photograph the new recruit.

“We have a large team, so photoshoots are hard to organise.”

You’re right; this is harder, especially if your team is spread throughout the country.

Once again, technology is your friend.

Almost everyone has a high-quality camera on their smartphone, which your team can use to take pictures. Give simple instructions (how far to stand from the camera, how to pose, and so on). Then, when the photos are sent to you, edit them, adding tints and background colours to create a consistent set of images.

“We want the focus to be on the business and our brand, not on our people.”

Your people are your business.

Next objection?

A time to be sensitive and respectful

Occasionally, a team member will not want their photo on your website due to privacy concerns. In our experience, these occasions are few and far between. However, when they occur, their wishes should always be respected without question or challenge.

Convinced? Now it’s time to take action

We have a nationwide network we’re happy to recommend if you need a photographer.

When it comes to client testimonial videos, we can film them remotely or on location.

If you’d like to learn more, call 0115 8965 300 or email hi@theyardstickagency.co.uk, and Abi Robinson will be in touch.