1. Branding
My images are not necessarily “branded” – they all do not have the same colors and fonts. Some bloggers choose to do this. I find it is mainly personal choice. However, all of my images have a similar clean style.
2. Software
Photoshop is the best option, however it has a steep learning curve.
I am not a huge fan of Canva – their templates tend to be overused and they often have blurry results.
I love Picmonkey and recommend it for creating quality designs, while being pretty easy to use.
3. Size
Facebook dimensions: 1200×630
Pinterest: 600×900, 600×1200 (I use 600×1200, others use 600×900. Use trial and error to figure out what works for you. It also doesn’t hurt to have both
4. Keep your target audience in mind
Don’t use script font when targeting toddlers, don’t use child-ish fonts when aiming for a Chip-and-Joanna feel.
5. Keep your objective in mind
What do you want the person to ultimately do? Make a purchase? Click? Brand awareness?
6. Licensing
EVERYTHING on your blog, whether or not you’re directly making money from it, MUST have a commercial use license or be in public domain. This includes all fonts, photos, etc. NO EXCEPTIONS TO THIS RULE.
7. Fonts
The Hungry Jpeg (great for bundle deals – easy commercial use license)
Creative Market (affiliate link) – they have 6 freebies a week for commercial use, and it’s a great way to search for a particular font
Font Squirrel – 100% free fonts for commercial use
Da Font – a wide font database, look at licenses before downloading and using. Some require you to purchase a license, you are free to use fonts that are “100% free” or “public domain”
FONT TIPS:
- Opposites attract
- Don’t mix similar fonts (two script fonts)
- Don’t use script fonts in all caps
- Avoid using hard to read fonts
- Try to only use 2 fonts – rarely is it okay to use more than 3 fonts
8. Colors
I have worked for a client who wanted to use pink in her eco-friendly logo because she liked the color pink. Think about what colors work best for your brand!
9. Images
For each paid site, look at the terms of use!! Be leery of “free stock photo sites” other than the two reputable ones below.
Pixabay and Unsplash – images are in public domain and 100% free.
Adobe Stock – most expensive, but most quality
Deposit Photos (affiliate link) – great for most needs and the one I use most often
Overall, keep it simple! Less text, fewer colors, fewer fonts.