Online Writing: The Value of Quality Content and Original Images
For as long as I have been writing online, I have been using my own personal photos to illustrate my articles and posts.
I suppose we all get to individually determine what constitutes "quality" content-- for me, originality is a very important factor. I have never much liked reading things where the writing is filled with the same stock images I have seen a dozen times before.
Of course, the purpose of photos in articles and blog posts is not a uniform thing. Sometimes the content of the photo is central to the content of an article... for example, if you're writing about George Clooney, it makes sense to have a photo of George Clooney. Similarly, if you're writing a "how to" manual, by all means use photos as illustrations.
In many cases, however, the primary purpose of illustration is to break up large blocks of text so they not only become easier to read, but the overall feel of the presentation is more appealing.
Most of my articles/posts are "human interest" or basically "conversational" in nature-- meaning that they are not specific types of illustration... and that's a primary reason why I like using my own photos to lend a sense of uniqueness to the presentation.
It also means I never have to worry about copyright issues or angry photographers writing to me saying "You used my photos! Thief!"
Of course, some would argue that it is "too much work" to use one's own artwork and photos-- I personally have never found that to be the case. But then I'm OK with the idea that there aren't any (or very few!) shortcuts to creating something new, from scratch.
In case you can't tell by now, I am a big proponent of both original and high quality content. If you can't add something worthwhile, why add anything at all?
Yes, I know, some do so because "it makes money" and some believe in "quantity over quality" and yet others simply don't care, they are content to just fill space with "something."
My approach my not be the most successful-- in a commercial sense-- but I am sticking to it because so-called "clickbait" frustrates and angers me, and I prefer to be part of the solution, rather than adding to the problem.
I also believe that an emphasis on quality tends to lead to "evergreen" content... content that will keep rewarding you, long after it was created!
How do YOU feel? Do you believe in always contributing quality work (writing, or otherwise)? Do you always do your best? Or are you more oriented to doing "what is expected?"
Great post @denmarkguy I agree with you for the most part, I am currently writing a blog called "365 Days That Count" so I do post often however the whole point of the blog was to ensure I found something meaningful in every day and I try to make the posts interesting and relatable. I use mostly my own pics but also a few memes or images to add effect and humour. Suppose it's different for everyone but I definitely agree that when you put in the time to create something worth while it is rewarding long after you have pressed post!
@daisyd, thanks for your comment-- I like your approach, too... and I will definitely be visiting your posts regularly because you are creating something interesting and original.
Thanks so much @denmarkguy and likewise :)
Love your photos, I do try and use my own when I can :)
@karenb54, thanks! Over the years, these kinds of photos have almost become a trademark for me.
I look forward to seeing more :)
I like to always do my best but it is difficult sometimes because doing my best often involves not trying too hard. If I'm doing things naturally they tend to come out better. If I think about things too much I tend not to post much or show anyone any of my work.
Your images are really nice. I like to use my own images too when I can.
@lightsplasher, thanks-- sometimes I struggle a bit with perfectionism, too... makes it harder to get things finished, for sure.