Even though the sensational James Bond (007) spy film “For Your Eyes Only” was a spectacular hit, grossing $195.3 million worldwide, this post has very little to do with surveillance or spying but merely emphasizes on the visual effect of a website as also how graphics greatly help improve user experience on the World Wide Web.

Since the veracity of the old adage that proclaims “A picture is worth a thousand words” proves to be so true with websites using images that we now know, irrespective of whether categorizing content, or promoting a product, captivating images help convey a website’s message so much more.

 

Eyes react better with visuals

Studies reveal that around 65% of the average population learns things by first looking at them. Also, they can better retain as well as retrieve information through visual mnemonic. This proves beyond doubt that much of our sensory cortex relates directly to vision, while our gray matters have the ability to recognize images visualized within 13 milliseconds.

This obviously means that we have got only very little time to stimulate a website visitor into taking any positive step towards our goal and so it is no wonder that most of today’s businesses are inclined to use a wide range of digital media to boost their online presence. All these lead to one point – to gear up efforts to appeal users visually.

 

Essence of the visual appeal

The essence of the visual appeal lies not only on the eyes of the beholder but also on the selection of the image provided on the website. The selection needs to be as lively as possible to attract the attention of the viewer. Moreover, it needs to be directly related to the product or services offered by the website. For instance, although the visual appeal of a rose is universal, it would be most inappropriate for a site selling automobile accessories. Equally ineffective will be image of a person walking with an umbrella for a website that sells sunscreen lotion. As for stock photos, although these prove cost-effective and easily available for most purposes, it will be prudent to stay away from such overused reproductions.

If, however, you suffer from lack of imagination about choosing an impressive image for your website, you can convincingly use photographs of your employees (preferably with uniform displaying your URL) on your company’s profile page. Even though it may sound much too mundane, you may rest assured that it will work wonderfully well, as prophesized by the Radiological Society of North America in their research of patient photos.

 

Images enhance consumer trust

Studies reveal that human photos on landing pages improve conversion rate. Human photos (male/female) often create subconscious effect on visitors, making them more inclined to close a deal. Further research on this topic, more related to eCommerce sites affirm that when considering a purchase decision, the prime issue online is trust. But how the trust generates? Taking lessons from television advertising and overall marketing trends, those running eCommerce websites feel that linking products with human beings enhances trust. Wondering about samples? There are examples galore. Though cigarette smoking has now been banned in most states, the visual ad for Marlboro cigarettes carried a fabulous photo of persons riding thoroughbreds with equally fabulous title that said, “Come to where the flavor is: Come to the Marlboro Country”.  Then there are numerous print ads that carry photos of men and women wearing designer dresses (exclusive dressmakers), running bikes (famed bike manufacturers), etc. Even technical sites are currently using men and women in the process of using their products. The main issue, once again is enhancement of trust (the essence behind closing an online deal) with the help of images that are linked with actual human beings.