Do you want to increase your chances of press coverage? Here are ten tips for press friendly photos.

I remember asking an author to send a photo to accompany an article about their book launch, while working in my first job as a news reporter.

She sent a photo of herself writing at her desk, taken from behind - and mostly showing the back of her head.

I realised then that not everybody recognised what made for a suitable press photo.

It’s about people:

Generally speaking, the press like photos of people – and showing their faces. Of course, there are exceptions, such as dealing with a sensitive topic where people remain anonymous.

Photos of people silhouetted against a sunset may be beautiful, but do not tend to be suitable for news articles.

Instead, photos of people facing the camera and with a facial expression to suit the mood – be it sombre or joyful – tend to be more appropriate.

Invest in a professional:

I would recommend investing in a professional photographer where possible. I’ve seen the use of good images make the difference between an article being used well – or not at all.

Eye-catching images are also more likely to get the readers’ attention.

I would also look to work with someone who has experience of taking photos for the press, as it can be quite a different skill to taking studio shots, for example.

The photo can be fun – as long as it’s relevant and suitable for the story. For example, I’ve worked with people who were happy to dress up as Star Trek characters to show the different personality types in the workplace:

Taking your own photos:

If you want to take photos yourself, then I can share some tips based on my experience.

I am not a professional photographer and will not be talking in detail about composition or lighting, but rather some practical steps to make your photos more press friendly.

Ten tips for press friendly photos:

1.   Consent. Firstly, make sure people are happy to have their photo taken and understand it may be used in the press or for promotional purposes. If young children are involved, it is worth getting written permission from their parents.

 2.   Caption photos. The general format is ‘from left to right, John Smith and Paul Jones,’ for example. Names are helpful for photos of five or less people. If it is a group shot, you can include the context such as ‘A team from xxx train for the 10K run in in aid of charity’.

3.   Check the spelling of names – For example, is it Jacqui Smith or Jackie Smyth? Don’t make assumptions, even with people you have known for some time.

 4.   Consider the tone of the accompanying article. If you are talking about a serious subject, such as an increase in divorce over Christmas, then the photo should reflect this. A ‘cheesy smile’ in this instance may be inappropriate.

 5.   Get people looking at the camera and make sure people’s faces can be seen. As a rule of thumb, tell people if they can only see the back of someone’s head they are not in the photo!

 6.   Make shapes – For example, if there are five people, form a ‘triangle’ – three at the back, two at the front.

 7.   Use natural light. If you are not a professional photographer, then lighting can be tricky. Going outside, where possible, may make it easier.

 8.   Use colour photos for the press – rather than black and white.

 9.   Consider quality. The photos need to be sharp and of a large enough file size. 1 mb tends to be suitable in most cases.

 10. Make it relevant. For example, if it is a book launch, hold the book in front of you. If you’ve taken part in a charity run – use a photo of you running or in your running gear with the charity slogan.

What experience have you had taking your own photos? What tips would you share?

Angela Belassie runs PR The Write Way to help small to medium sized organisations shout about their work.

She is a former journalist and has enjoyed a successful career in the media industry for more than 10 years.

www.prthewriteway.co.uk