This week we looked at imaging and photography within user experience. Photography and images play a big role in user experiences and can transform those experiences into something more meaningful and communicative.
Photography plays a particularly important role amongst brands selling products and even food. These images allow the brand to communicate effectively what they products look like and can even help establish part of the brands overall image by way of their use of photography.
An example of this can be seen in Belfast’s own Neighbourhood Coffee. Neighbourhood employ a clean and warm style of photography that almost feels like the warm hug of a latte. These visuals level up the brand and allow it to speak not only for the product but for the thought behind it.
Crown Creative - Hospitality Design Studio
Some brands tend to use photography to inform users about different aspects of the product. Apple does this effectively with its clean, simple product photography. The images are precise and straightforward, often showing the product from just the right angles to give you a clear idea of what it looks like and how it might fit into your life. You see the iPhone or MacBook in its entirety, with close ups highlighting key features, like the sleek design or the crisp screen. It’s not about flashy details or complex visuals, it’s about providing enough visual information to help users understand exactly what they’re buying. By doing this, Apple ensures there’s no confusion, giving you a direct look at the product’s form and function before making a decision.
Some brands opt to utilise photography to effectively communicate their brands identity or personality. Aesop’s photography does a great job of communicating their brand personality without being overly obvious about it. The images they use are simple and minimal, but there’s a warmth to them that makes everything feel thoughtful. They often use soft lighting and natural textures, like wood or stone, which makes their products feel grounded and authentic. It’s clear they’re not just showcasing a product, but creating an entire atmosphere that feels calm and considered. There’s no over the top styling, just quiet elegance. It’s a good example of how you can communicate a brand’s vibe without trying too hard, everything feels understated, but you still get exactly what they’re about.
An under appreciated aspect of photography that Kyle mentioned, in regards to UX, is the sizing of images included in web use. Large high quality images not only have the ability to slow down a sites performance but also cost more money to run and use more energy. I specifically took notice of the increase in energy use here as it is a very interesting point, it begs the question to me, is appropriate image sizing, in this regard, a sustainable practice? I find it to be a strange one as it should be the standard as to not waste energy but so many things that cost us more energy are still not the standard.